The Office of National Statistics (ONS) in London has revealed that cohabitating is a rising trend in Britain. Most of the young couples live together without getting married.

However the ONS also said that the increase in cohabitation does not explain the decline in marriage completely. The research found that fewer women aged between 25 and 29 were opting neither for cohabitation or marriage.

The report also said that the decline of having a family life could have a negative impact on health. This is because children of married parents tend to be healthier than those of single mothers, seperated parents or cohabitating couples.

"Partnership continues to be the healthiest state in general. There are health benefits associated with partnership, especially marriage, but there are variations by sex," the report said.

The research also found that the single parent percent increased by 8 per cent.