The library and meet…

Finding a sling or carrier that is right for your family can often be a confusing and sometimes expensive business, especially if you’ve never used one before. West Pennine Slings (formerly Blackburn with Darwen Sling Library) is here to help you go through all the options to find what works best for you and your child, whether you are new to babywearing or are an experienced babywearer you can use the library to try different types or makes of carriers.

There are a variety of different baby carriers in the library available to try and loan and we are always adding more! There is a meet every Friday in Darwen at the New Methodist Church as well as meets in Blackburn, Burnley and Bolton less regularly. The sling library is often available at the weekly NCT group in Clitheroe too (Please see the meet section for more information and the library section for what’s available). We’re more than happy to answer questions, let you try out slings during groups or help you with a sling you’ve bought.

Wondering why carrying your baby is a good idea? Is it safe to do? Or maybe you’d like find out where you can buy or a new carry to try? Head over to the information and links section to find out more.

Katrina is a certified Trageschule babywearing consultant and has also completed the School of Babywearing consultancy course so is able to offer sound advice on babywearing and can also offer private one to one teaching sessions as well as workshops through Hold Close, she is also a member of BABI (British Association of Babywearing Consultants) and insured. Please see details in the consultancy section, you can also see a copy of her certificates there. If you would like more information or want to book a consultation please get in touch through the contact page.
Have you used a library service and want to leave you thoughts? Do you want to know what others have thought? Then go over to the feedback page :)

A bit about us…

Katrina (Babywearing Consultant) - I’m mama to Matilda and Corben. Matilda is the reason for the library and meet existing, from the day she was born she let us know that there was absolutely no way she was going to be put down for a second. Ever. She just liked her cuddles too much! So I started researching slings, got a stretchy wrap and we’ve never looked back. Now we have Corben slings have become even more valuable as he is just as cuddly as his sister. Matilda and Corben’s dad loves to carry them too but isn’t too keen on my expensive sling habit, he can’t understand why one isn’t enough…

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Kate (Babywearing Peer Supporter) - I’m mum of George who is 2 and with another due in May. We loved the idea of carrying before we even had George and got a stretchy wrap, to begin with, which turned out to be a lifesaver. George had terrible colic and problems with feeding and the only time he was ever settled as a baby was when he was being worn. It made our lives so much easier and we loved the connection it gave us to George and how much happier he was. In 2013 I went on the School of Babywearing Peer Support course in order to help other mums explore the benefits of babywearing and share with them the world has been opened up to us with.

Fiona (Babywearing Peer Supporter) - I have one daughter who is two. When I was pregnant I knew that I wanted to be able to carry her and instinctively felt that the high street carriers where not what I wanted. I never got to a sling meet anywhere but after researching a bit online I purchased a Close Carrier. I found this a great introduction to baby wearing, but I quickly moved onto a beautiful Melkaj Mei Tai. In May 2013 I completed the School of Babywearing Peer Supporter course so that I could help and support Katrina with the library.

Kristen (Babywearing Peer Supporter) - I have a wonderful 2 year old daughter who I have carried since day 1. The reasons I use a sling are as many and varied as the slings in my personal collection. I was lucky enough to have seen Katrina while I was still pregnant so I have never thought of another way. My hippy status is still undecided although my mother worked hard to make me one. I have a monthly meet in Burnley for those who live a bit too far away. I became a peer supporter to help Katrina help others to make the right choices for them.

Rebecca (Sling Library Assistant) - I have a lovely little girl Georgia who is 2 in March. I was given a high st carrier when she was small and loved wearing her as did dad. But it didn’t last very long as the heavier she got the more uncomfortable it became. It took us a while to find out what we liked and suited our needs but thanks to the library we could hire before we bought. I love the closeness we get and Georgia loves it too she has me right there when she needs me. Ive only recently started helping out at one of the groups but hope to train in the near future.