Singletons looking for love lack confidence to approach people after years on apps

One in six singletons haven’t been on a date with someone they first met in real life in the past two years. Still, 83% hope to meet someone in person this summer, rather than through online dating apps.

A poll of 1,000 adults who are not in a relationship found 60% admit their confidence is holding them back from talking to someone new face-to-face. Many said they worry about rejection and how they might come across.

To help break the ice, Mecca Bingo, which commissioned the research, has launched its ‘Bingo Wingman Service’, with specially trained team members helping to spark conversation, boost confidence and turn shared glances into real connections.

Cici said: “In a world where so much communication now happens behind a screen, it’s no surprise that approaching someone in real life can feel more daunting than ever.

“That’s why more singles are craving organic moments where they can meet naturally and feel genuine chemistry straight away.

“Shared activities like bingo help take the pressure off traditional dates by creating fun, relaxed moments people can bond over naturally.

“And for anyone needing an extra confidence boost, my newly trained Mecca Bingo Wingmen are now equipped with all the right tools to help break the ice and make those first interactions feel easier.”

The survey found three quarters of people see summer as the ideal season to find romance, with many saying it’s the perfect time to expand their social circle.

But when it comes to calling in back-up, just 18% reckon their friends are good at helping them meet new people — and a third of those said their mates have actively made things more awkward.

Despite the hurdles, there is still an appetite for more spontaneous, “old-school” encounters, with 52% saying they would rather meet someone organically in real life than rely on dating apps or social media.

Another 37% said they are bored of traditional dates like drinks or dinner, while 35% said they can feel like a job interview rather than a chance to connect.

A quarter of those polled via OnePoll.com said they now prefer activity-based dates, where the shared atmosphere makes it easier to strike up a conversation.

The ‘Bingo Wingman Service’ is available in select clubs every Thursday throughout June, and anyone who uses the service can get a free plate of chicken wings to share on their date.

Sarah O’Neill, director of innovation at Mecca Bingo, added: “Our research shows that singletons are increasingly seeking out more experience-led ways to date.

“But with many lacking the confidence to put themselves out there, we wanted to offer a fun, subtle helping hand to give them the confidence to make that first move.

“Our clubs have always been social spaces at heart – places where people come together to enjoy good food, entertainment and shared moments.”