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'I'm a relationship expert and this is why the “777” rule doesn’t work’

First published on Saturday 8 July 2023

amy nuttall / list

Actress Amy Nuttall is said to be using the relationship ‘plan’ with husband Andrew Buchan after he allegedly cheated.

It was revealed this week that Emmerdale actress Amy Nuttall is back with husband Andrew Buchan following his alleged affair with a co-star.

And along with reports of the couple, who have 2 children, reuniting, there’s also been talk of relationship rules Amy is said to want them to follow. These are said to include full access to each other’s phones at all times and regular FaceTime check-ins. The couple will also share working roles more equally.

On top of this they are said to be following a 777 rule which is popular on social media. A source told The Sun:

‘They will adopt the 777 approach which means every 7 days you go on a date, every 7 weeks you go away for the night and every 7 months you go away on holiday just the two of you.'

But what is the 777 rule, and can you use it with YOUR partner? We asked relationship expert Lucy Beresford for her thoughts ...

What is the 777 approach?

It’s thought to have started on Reddit in 2015 and is often shared on social media as a style of relationship advice.

It basically means going on a date every 7 days, going away for the night every 7 weeks and going on a couple’s holiday every 7 months.

Does it work?

Relationship expert Lucy Beresford, who gave a TED Talk on infidelity, says: ‘My concern is that 777 is the absolute bare minimum! Repair from infidelity needs to be a daily practice.

‘And when a couple face competing demands such as newborns, teenagers, looking after ageing parents, or work commitments, they need to make more effort to prioritise their relationship – every single day.’

Relationship advice for parents

Looking for tips for your relationship? Lucy adds:

‘It's about creating moments every single day where you and your partner feel seen and heard and validated by each other – and therefore it will require thought and effort to consider what in particular works for them and for you. Do you like gifts? Or time alone with your partner? Or more sex? Or someone to help change a nappy or pick up dinner? 

‘It could be by leaving a hand-written note in your partner's pocket before you both head off for work, or about choosing something they like for supper or a film to watch together.’

We've got lots more relationship advice here.

And if your partner had an affair, we've got advice on how to regain trust.

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