CHILDFREE ELDER STORIES
Celebrating the lives of older childfree people - because your stories matter.
ABOUT THE PROJECT
Childfree elder stories are rarely seen or heard. This project exists to change that.
Older childfree people show us what’s possible when you follow your own path. Your lived experiences inspire confidence and hope – especially in younger folks who are choosing to live differently.
We’re building toward a book celebrating 100 childfree elders. Some sit for portraits during our travels, others share their story in writing – named or anonymous. No matter how you show up, your story deserves to be in this book.
We treat everyone’s experience with care and respect. And every story helps someone, somewhere, feel less alone.
WE NEED YOUR STORY
We would love to hear from you if you are:
- aged 60 and over - especially if you’re in your 70s, 80s, 90s or beyond
- childfree, whether by choice, by circumstance, or a mix of both
- of any gender - however you identify, your story matters
We welcome stories from people all over the world. You don’t need to be on social media, speak on camera, or share your name. You don’t need to feel like your life is “impressive” – your life already matters.
If this sounds like you, please share your story. If it sounds like someone you know, send them this page.
HOW TO GET INVOLVED
You can choose any of these options, or all three. Whatever makes you feel most comfortable.
1. Share a short story
Write a short reflection about your life and what being childfree has meant to you. A few paragraphs is plenty. Share with your name, or anonymously - all that matters is that you share your real life experience.
2. Join a podcast conversation
A relaxed, guided audio conversation with Zoë - recorded remotely from wherever you are in the world, and shared as a podcast episode.
3. Take part in a portrait session
An unhurried session with Zoë, wherever you feel most yourself - your kitchen, your garden, on your favourite walk. Your portrait becomes part of a growing series celebrating childfree elders around the world.
Portraits happen where we travel – and right now, that’s NORWAY (until end of August 2026) then Sweden, Denmark, Netherlands, UK, France and Spain. We plan to head to North and South America in 2027, but wherever you are, please share your story anyway – we’re always planning future routes around the elders we hear from.
WHAT HAPPENS NEXT
When you fill out the form, we read every submission. We’ll be in touch if there’s a next step or a good fit for a podcast conversation or portrait session at that time.
Some stories are shared quickly, others may be held for later. Not every submission leads to immediate publication, and that doesn’t lessen its importance. All your stories matter.
Know an elder or can help us find one?
You might not be 60+ yourself – but maybe you know someone who is, or know a group or community space where they might be.
Please send them this page or add it to your group. It’s a small gesture that means the world to us – thank you!
wearechildfree.com/elder-stories
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Who can share their story?
Anyone aged 60 or older who identifies as childfree — whether by choice or circumstance — is welcome to share. You can submit your story publicly or anonymously.
Do I have to be publicly identifiable to participate?
No — you can share anonymously if that’s what you prefer.
Do I need to be photographed to be part of the book?
Not at all. The book will feature both portraits and written stories. If you’d rather not be photographed – or rather not be named – you can share your story anonymously. It carries exactly the same weight.
What types of stories are you looking for?
We collect written reflections, podcast conversations, and portrait sessions that share personal experiences of life without children.
How do you use the stories once submitted?
Stories may be shared on the website, podcast, social media, or as portraits, always with care and respect. Some may be published right away; others may be held for future use. One day, we may also compile stories into a book, but this is a future goal and not guaranteed.
Do I need social media or technical skills to participate?
No. You don’t need social media accounts or to appear on camera — your story can be shared in any format you’re comfortable with.
Can I tell my friends or family about this?
Absolutely — you’re encouraged to share the invitation with others who might want to contribute.
Is there a deadline to participate?
There’s no fixed deadline — submissions are reviewed on an ongoing basis.
WHO WE ARE
This project is created by photographer Zoë Noble, and her husband and producer, James Glazebrook, who have spent years listening to and sharing childfree stories.
We’re childfree ourselves, and this work comes from a deep belief that older childfree lives deserve to be seen, respected, and remembered.
Every story is shared with care, consent, and choice. Nothing is published without permission.
