Helen Flanagan's Co-Parenting Struggles: The Untold Story Behind Her Public Criticism
Helen Flanagan's recent public outbursts against her former partner, footballer Scott Sinclair, have exposed significant tensions in their co-parenting relationship, with sources suggesting this may be just the beginning of her speaking out. The former Coronation Street actress, who shares three children with Sinclair, has shifted from maintaining a respectful silence to openly expressing her frustrations, revealing what insiders describe as "the tip of the iceberg" in her grievances.
From Private Strain to Public Criticism
Following their separation in 2022 after thirteen years together, Flanagan initially kept details of their co-parenting arrangement private. However, recent months have seen her describe Sinclair as a "d***head" on social media and accuse him of missing their son's school performance. According to a source close to the situation, "Helen feels Scott has been really distant recently and hasn't been as involved as he used to be. She's really disappointed in him as a former partner and as a dad."
The source elaborated that Flanagan believes Sinclair has left her to manage most parental responsibilities alone, including household matters and childcare for their daughters Matilda and Delilah, along with son Charlie. "She didn't see why she was protecting him given she feels so let down," the insider revealed, suggesting Flanagan's previous supportive comments about Sinclair were part of a protective strategy she has now abandoned.
The Emotional and Financial Toll
Flanagan's public comments coincide with what she has described as the lingering trauma of their separation, which she equated to a divorce rather than a simple break-up. In 2024, she revealed that instead of processing the emotional impact, she entered "survival mode" by immersing herself in work, ultimately contributing to a mental and physical breakdown in late 2023.
Financial pressures have compounded these challenges. Last year, Flanagan disclosed during a court appearance for speeding offences that she faced significant monetary constraints, stating she had just enough funds to cover tax obligations. She is currently selling the family home near Bolton, a six-bedroom property, but expressed frustration about having "no control" over the sale process and uncertainty about future housing arrangements.
Career Aspirations Versus Family Stability
As a single mother of three, Flanagan faces difficult decisions balancing her professional ambitions with her children's stability. Sources indicate she is considering a move to London to pursue more acting opportunities, including a potential return to Coronation Street, but is hesitant to disrupt her children's settled lives. "She really wants to work more and take more acting roles," the source explained, "but the kids are happy where they are and she always wants to keep their life as settled as she can."
This tension reflects what Flanagan perceives as a public misconception about her circumstances. "People think she's just a privileged actress who has it all," the source noted, "and she sort of feels she wants to explain that isn't the case, and share her reality."
Setting the Record Straight on Past Relationships
Flanagan's recent openness extends beyond her relationship with Sinclair. She has also addressed rumours about her connection with boxer David Haye and his girlfriend Sian Osborne in 2023, clarifying that she was never part of a throuple but spent time with Haye individually. Details from her forthcoming autobiography reveal she purchased Haye a Cartier Trinity bracelet worth over £1,000 during their involvement.
According to sources, this pattern of clarification stems from Flanagan's desire to control her own narrative. "It's the same situation with David as it was with Scott," the insider stated. "She saw so many comments and heard so many opinions about what happened and she wanted to tell her side of the story and set a few things straight."
Looking Forward: Dating and Future Relationships
Despite her current challenges, Flanagan is reportedly ready to date again, though friends and family have cautioned her about her tendency to choose "bad boys." This advice comes as she navigates the complexities of single parenthood while managing public scrutiny of her personal life.
The situation between Flanagan and Sinclair continues to evolve, with sources suggesting there may be more revelations to come. "There's definitely more Helen wants to say," the insider concluded. "She feels totally let down, so this could be the tip of the iceberg. She thinks she's gone quite lightly on Scott so far." As both parents adjust to their new dynamic, their ability to co-parent effectively remains uncertain, with Flanagan's public statements highlighting the profound difficulties many separated parents face behind closed doors.
