Former Coronation Street star Helen Flanagan has revealed she feels 'empty' when her children are with their father, a struggle that is affecting her return to acting. The actress, who has three children with ex-fiancé Scott Sinclair, has been open about the emotional toll of co-parenting.
Struggles With Co-Parenting
Helen, 36, shares Matilda, 11, Delilah, eight, and Charlie, five, with Scott, 37. A source told us that Helen really struggles when the kids aren't there, and she has been open about it. The source said, "She's a great mum and she's trying to do it all. She wants to get back into her acting, doing more work. She really worries when the kids aren't there – and she wishes she could be different."
In an Instagram story, Helen wrote, "My kids went to their dad yesterday and I just feel really stressed and had a cry. Coffee and chocolate is always a win." She added, "I always feel so empty when they have gone, like what is my use now? I have my kids all the time so I can't really put much else into different areas of my life."
Impact on Sleep and Wellbeing
The actress also shared that she struggles to sleep without her children in the house. She explained, "I usually sleep really well when I've got the kids, and I went to sleep last night with The Sword In The Stone, a Disney film, on repeat... I just haven't slept well."
Expert Insight
Parenting specialist Sue Atkins says it's understandable that Helen feels a sense of loss. She explains, "For many parents, especially those who've been the main caregiver, parenting isn't just what they do – it's a huge part of who they are. When the children aren't there, the house feels quieter, the routine changes overnight and it's not unusual to wonder, 'What do I do now?'"
Atkins advises parents in similar situations to use child-free days to catch up with friends, work, exercise, or rest without guilt. She says, "Missing your children is a sign of love, not weakness."
Background on Helen and Scott
Helen and Scott split in 2022 after 13 years together. Despite Helen saying she still has "a lot of love" for Scott, she has admitted they have a "very bad relationship." Last August, she said on Instagram, "I hate co-parenting, hate it. I actually really struggle when they go away..."
Helen's love life has been a rollercoaster since the split. Her most serious relationship, with former footballer Robbie Talbot, ended last May after just over a year. A source says she's a romantic who still hopes to find The One and have a family unit again.
