Please read the following Terms and Conditions carefully before using your hire.

Safety

ALL CARRIERS ARE EXTREMELY SAFE WHEN USED PROPERLY; HOWEVER MISUSE CAN CAUSE INJURY TO YOURSELF OR YOUR CHILD. IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO ENSURE THAT YOU ARE USING THE CARRIER CORRECTLY AND THAT YOUR BABY OR CHILD IS SAFE AT ALL TIMES WHEN USING THE CARRIER.

Always follow instructions for use carefully and check for signs of wear before use.

All carriers are provided with practical instructions for safe use. You will be provided with an online link to manufacturer’s instructions or a paper copy of instructions for the type of sling you have borrowed.

The borrower must read all safety, use and care instructions provided prior to using the carrier. Carriers must only be used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, though where there is a choice we may recommend particular carrying methods or positions. After familiarising yourself with the instructions given please practise using the carrier with a doll/teddy or cushion/pillow or with another adult present so that you get used to the tying/fastening/adjusting methods.

Carriers borrowed from Early Connections must not be used when taking part in any exercise class (with the exception of Sling Swing) or adventurous activity. It is not legal to use a carrier to carry a baby whilst riding a bicycle in the UK.

Always ensure that you seat your child correctly in the carrier and check any knots regularly as children do not stay still and straps and wrap passes can move or become loosened.

If you feel any pain while carrying your child, change the carrying position or remove the carrier. If you are unsure about anything you read in the instructions, are not sure what you’re doing or are at all concerned, please contact us directly.

Please do not smoke while using or near the carrier or accessories. Please inform us if you are a smoker, or if there is a smoker in your home as we will need to carefully launder the items after they are returned. Smoking is known to increase the risk of cot death for babies, and these risks have also been linked to babies being in close contact with clothing or objects contaminated with smoke particles. 

Food and posset marks are expected when carrying children, but please keep the sling away from anything that may stain more permanently (oil, paint, pens, etc.), or anything that might damage it (scissors, Velcro, keys in your bag, fire, etc.). The cost of damage beyond normal wear and tear may be removed from your deposit. Please spot clean the carrier using water as required, please do not launder the carrier unless with prior agreement and under specific instruction from an Early Connections volunteer.

Hires

All items are lent subject to availability, condition and suitability. All items remain the property of Early Connections regardless of length of loan or renewals thereof.

The standard loan period is £12 for two weeks, with the exception of newborn nappy kits, which have a four week loan period. A £40 deposit is payable for all loans, the deposit will be returned following the timely return of the carrier or kit, undamaged with all additional accessories. Please return items at the beginning of a library session or to the agreed volunteer drop off prior to the return date. Please note is your responsibility to return loans, we will not be able to collect.

The replacement of any lost carriers, accessories or items will be paid for out of your deposit or owed if a greater cost than the deposit paid. Charges for lost components will be equal to replacement cost (including any postage costs). Charges for items damaged beyond normal wear and tear will be judged on a case by case basis.  In these circumstances, hire fees and any associated administration costs will continue to accrue until payment is settled. Outstanding charges may be pursued through the Small Claims Court if payment is not made within a reasonable time.  

If you return your hire late £1 per day late fees will be charged for every day past the agreed return date, until the date that you either return the item or pay to extend your hire including any fees incurred to that date.  Persistent lateness with returns, rehires or late fees may result in you no longer being able to loan from Early Connections. It is not usually possible to renew your loan more than once unless in exceptional circumstances.

Returns can be made at any library session or via the Drop Box at 14 Keats Close, Royston SG8 5AU. If this is not possible the item may be returned by post to the above address to arrive on or before the returns due date. The item is returned by post at your own cost and risk (Please double bag and address both layers, please use Recorded or Special Delivery and retain proof of postage). Please ensure you allow sufficient time for the item to arrive by its return due date.

Under no circumstances are items to be left with staff at Clay Farm Centre or Jolly Postie Royston.

Deposits which are unclaimed after 28 days from the return of the item will be reinvested back into the loan stock.

Your personal details will be kept in accordance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), and will only be used to contact you in relation to your booking and loan. In line with tax and accountancy guidelines, all data will be destroyed after 7 years.