Childfree Elder
STORIES
Celebrating the lives and sharing the experiences 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 lives offer reassurance, perspective and hope – especially to younger folks.
We collect and share these stories in different ways: short written reflections, recorded conversations, and portrait photographs.
Some stories are shared publicly, others anonymously. All are treated with care and respect. 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, tell a friend.
HOW TO GET INVOLVED
You choose how and how much you’d like to share
1. Share a short story
Share a short written reflection about your life and what being childfree has meant to you. You can share anonymously or with your name.
2. Join a podcast conversation
Take part in a relaxed, guided audio conversation. These are recorded remotely and shared as podcast episodes.
3. Take part in a portrait session
Be photographed as part of our project celebrating childfree elders. Portraits are taken during our travels or with trusted local photographers.
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.
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.
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.
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.