Ending a relationship at this time of year can magnify the perception that everyone else is having a great time with their loved ones.

Until recent years, miscarriage was not something that was spoken about: it was simply brushed under the carpet. But couples should not be afraid to be open about their grief – talking will help them to heal, writes Deirdre Pierce-McDonnell.

With no employment opportunities, Mary McCarthy knows the right thing for her young daughter to do is emigrate – but it won’t be easy.