Scotland’s Baby Box is now available to all expectant mothers in Scotland registered with a midwife.

Mark McDonald Minister for Childcare and Early Years in the Scottish Government said:

“The box includes a large number of items which are not only practical but designed to help tackle inequality and improve health. It can also be used as a safe sleep space and has been awarded British Safety standard accreditation as a crib for use at home.”

“We will continue to listen to feedback as the Baby Box reaches more families and work with parents and healthcare professionals to keep the contents under review.”

photos Scot Gov

Chief Medical Officer Dr Catherine Calderwood said:

“All the evidence shows that the early years are crucial for children’s development. What happens then can be linked to outcomes much later in life. So we know that measures undertaken in the 0-3 years age range have the opportunity to make the biggest impact.

“That is why we have been working hard to enhance the existing infrastructure available to support families in these crucial early years from before birth all the way up to school age and beyond.

“Over and above the practical benefits the items within the Baby Box provide, the box itself also offers healthcare professionals a unique opportunity to introduce expectant parents to a wide range of health promotion information.”

All babies due on or after 15 August will be eligible for a Baby Box.

What’s inside the Baby Box? View Unboxing 

Reporter: Fiona Grahame

The Orkney News has several articles about Scotland’s baby boxes and you can find them using our search facility.

 Welcome Wee One by Jackie Kay Scotland’s Makar

O ma darlin wee one
At last you are here in the wurld
And wi’ aa your wisdom
Your een bricht as the stars,
You’ve filled this hoose with licht,
Yer trusty wee haun, your globe o’ a heid,
My cherished yin, my hert’s ain!

O my darlin wee one
The hale wurld welcomes ye:
The mune glowes; the hearth wairms.
Let your life hae luck, health, charm,
Ye are my bonny blessed bairn,
My small miraculous gift.
I never kent luve like this.