Former Coronation Street actress Helen Flanagan has launched a fierce defence against online trolls who criticised her decision to take a child-free holiday in Ibiza.
The mother-of-three, famed for her role as Rosie Webster, shared a series of sun-drenched photos from her Balearic escape, only to be met with a wave of negative comments questioning her parenting choices.
In a powerful clapback on her Instagram Stories, the 33-year-old star stated: "I'm a much better mum when I have time to myself and come back refreshed."
Flanagan, who shares daughters Matilda, seven, Delilah, four, and son Charlie, two, with ex-fiancé Scott Sinclair, emphasised the importance of maternal self-care. She highlighted that her children were "perfectly fine and happy" during her absence, being cared for by their father.
The actress didn't hold back against her critics, adding: "I think it's really healthy for children to see their mum work hard and have fun." She pointed out the double standards often faced by mothers compared to fathers when taking personal time.
Her defiant message concluded with a firm stance against mum-shaming culture: "I don't think there's any room for mum-shaming. It's not kind."
Flanagan's response has sparked widespread support from fans and fellow parents, with many praising her honesty about the challenges of modern motherhood and the necessity of taking breaks to maintain mental wellbeing.
