On the fourth anniversary of the Baby Box, 11,460 babies across Ayrshire and Arran have already begun their lives with the benefits this SNP Government initiative.
Across Scotland, 186,548 Baby Boxes had been delivered to families by Friday 13 August 2021.
Uptake among expectant parents hit a record high of 98% in 2020.
In an independent evaluation, 97% of parents rated the box and its contents as good.
Parents highlighted benefits of the box, including saving them money on essential items for newborns and helping with information on child health and development, with 91% agreeing that getting a baby box had saved them money on essentials.
Children’s Minister Clare Haughey MSP said:
“The Baby Box is part of our commitment to making sure that every child, no matter what their circumstances, has the best start in life. I am delighted that so many parents continue to value the box, and that they and their babies are benefiting from it and its contents.
“It is encouraging to see that the positive impacts of the Baby Box are felt right across all families, but particularly among first-time parents, younger parents and families on lower incomes.
“This evaluation really highlights the positive impact it is having on parents and their newborns - a fitting tribute on its fourth birthday.”
Kenneth Gibson MSP added:
“The SNP wants to give every child in Scotland the best start in life and the 97% uptake of the Baby Box and excellent feedback demonstrate the success of this policy.
“It’s a wonderful thought that just about every baby and toddler across Cunninghame North has benefited from the box, the products and guidance inside it and I encourage all expecting parents to take up the offer when your midwife raises it with you.”
Jackie Tolland, from Parent Network Scotland, said:
“As a parenting organisation, we were delighted to be part of the launch of the Baby Box in 2017. Since then, we have heard many stories about how helpful and very much-needed the Baby Box has been to families. We continue to promote the Baby Box and thank the Scottish Government for keeping parents in mind at the start of their parenting journey. We appreciate all the support.”
ENDS
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