Philippa, 32, and Jack, 30, met at a post-election party in Sheffield in December 2019. Philippa, who had moved to the city in 2018 for her PhD in housing and planning, joined the local Labour party and became involved in the 2019 general election campaign. At a victory party for Olivia Blake, a successful candidate they supported, Philippa felt overwhelmed and began to cry. Jack, who was also a campaign volunteer but had worked in different areas, comforted her.
They bonded over their shared political interests and values during their conversation at the bar. Although they did not exchange numbers that night, Philippa visited Jack at his bookstore job a few days later. They arranged to meet for drinks, leading to a successful first date where both felt understood and connected.
As their relationship progressed, they spent increasing amounts of time together, even deciding to isolate together during the COVID-19 lockdown in March 2020. Despite initial challenges, the experience solidified their bond. They discovered common interests in hiking, dancing, gigs, and fitness, and enjoyed several holidays together.
After four years of living together in Sheffield, they plan to move to Spain in September 2024. Philippa has been awarded a postdoctoral fellowship near Barcelona, and Jack, a qualified teacher since 2022, hopes to find a job at a local school. They intend to marry in Sheffield before their move.