Cheshire mums create unique club to help new friendships blossom

Sarah Taylor, 39, Laura Ward, 28, and Helen Jones, 34, had their first babies months just before the pandemic and realised there was a desperate need for young families to meet up when restrictions lifted.

The trio, who are all teachers, set up Cheshire Mama Club and the idea has really taken off.

Sarah, from Hartford, said: "We just had our babies a couple of months and it was lockdown.

Founder members Laura Ward, Sarah Taylor and Helen Jones

"We missed out getting together with other mums.

"Socialising is so important, we want to make opportunities for mums to meet and bring the kids along.

"There are not many places where you can do that and feel comfortable.

"Sometimes you feel awkward and worried if your baby is crying or you want to breastfeed."

Mums have created lots of new friendships and sharing ideas, tips and experiences has given them confidence.

Sarah's daughter Charlotte is two and she now has a four-month-old son Roman.

Helen, whose daughter Skylar is two, said: "We were all new to motherhood and felt there was a huge gap in the market for events where mums and their babies could chat and truly connect in a non-judgemental, supportive environment.

Mums and little ones enjoy a Cheshire Mama Club event at Hartford Hall

"We know how difficult it is to meet people and have a decent conversation when you've just had a baby.

"We wanted to host fun events which would enable women to meet other new mums, build a supportive network, enjoy some much needed 'me time' and regain their confidence, all while having their little ones entertained."

Ten different types of events have been held in Knutsford, Northwich and across Cheshire, ranging from mum-only nights to brunches, afternoon teas and parties.

Children enjoying a Cheshire Mama Club event

Each one supports local businesses and venues and provides a children's entertainer and goody bags for mums.

Laura, a former teacher at Winnington Primary School, who has a two-year-old son Rupert and three-month-old daughter Beatrice, said: "We're thrilled that we've been able to connect so many new mums and introduce them to lots of brilliant local businesses.

"It's been wonderful watching new friendships blossom and seeing mums enjoy themselves without worrying that their little ones are bored or being noisy."

A forum has been launched on their website for mums to chat.

For more details visit cheshiremamaclub.co.uk.