Same-sex couples

Same-sex couples have traditionally been in the vulnerable position of having fewer rights than other cohabiting couples AND being unable to get married. Happily, all this inequality is a thing of the past.

The information contained throughout the LivingTogether site applies to same-sex couples unless it is stated otherwise. In almost all areas of the law same-sex couples now have the same rights as other cohabiting couples. But, as important as this progress is, don't get too excited - cohabiting couples don't automatically have many rights.

Since 5th December 2005, same-sex couples can form a civil partnership, giving them extra rights and security (as well as a justification for a big party and a wedding list). To all intents and purposes civil partnership is the same as civil marriage - just more exclusive. For more information see our guide to Civil partnerships and old fashioned living together - Civil Partnerships and LivingTogether (83 KB)

Or see Same sex, Different rules? where we look at the changes in recent years, and what action you may need to take if you're not forming a civil partnership.

Mary Webber
April 2007