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The voice of Scotland’s vibrant voluntary sector

Published by Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations

TFN is published by the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations, Mansfield Traquair Centre, 15 Mansfield Place, Edinburgh, EH3 6BB. The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO) is a Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation. Registration number SC003558.

Baby boxes benefit families across Scotland

This news post is over 5 years old
 

More than 50,000 of the packs were distributed to new parents in the first year of the scheme

The baby box is celebrating its first birthday.

The Scottish Government initiative has benefitted to 52,065 newborns in its first year.

The boxes contain items including clothing, a play mat, books, a towel and a sling carrier - and the box itself can be used as a sleeping space.

Figures show 85% of expectant parents have taken up the opportunity to receive the Baby Box, while the latest parent survey showed 100% satisfaction.

Greater Glasgow and Clyde has received the most Baby Boxes in the past year, with 12,815 new babies being welcomed by a box, while 199 babies on the Western Isles received boxes.

The boxes have travelled far and wide, with 206 boxes travelling 400 miles from the depot in Leith to Haroldswick in Shetland.

Shelagh Young, Scotland director of Home-Start UK, said the boxes provide vital support to parents.

She said: "Many parents have been telling Home-Start staff and volunteers just how much the items they receive are helping them. Being a parent, especially for the first time, can be overwhelming, and many of the families we work with we work with feel isolated and alone. The baby box gives the clear message that every child matters, and that parents are not alone."

Children and early years minister Maree Todd said: "A year on from when the first baby boxes were delivered, we can say these boxes are having a real impact on the lives of those who receive them.

“I've heard stories from across the country about how the thermometers have helped parents seek appropriate medical care for their babies, how its contents are providing essential products for babies who arrive early, and much needed comfort for those who might not have family or friends around to shower the little one with gifts when they arrive.”