£6M 'Baby Box' pilot launches in Scotland
newborns in Forth Valley and the Orkney first to receive box filled with "essentials" to help tackle deprivation
A £6M scheme to give every baby in Scotland a "baby box" begins its three month pilot.
Newborns in NHS Forth Valley and the Orkney Islands will be given the box containing what's described as "40 different essential items" including nappies, books, thermometers and clothing.
The Scottish Government has adopted the idea from Finland where it was introduced in the 1930's and is said to have helped tackle infant mortality rates.
It costs around £145 and ministers hope it will help target deprivation and give every child in Scotland the best start in life.
The baby box concept is also intended to encourage engagement by expectant mothers with maternity and antenatal services.
The three-month pilot begins today in Clackmannanshire and Orkney, and will be rolled out to all newborns by the summer of 2017.
The First Minister was at Clackmannanshire Community Healthcare Centre to meet parents and midwives and to distribute the first Boxes.
Ms Sturgeon said: “Scotland’s Baby Box is a strong signal of our determination that every child, regardless of their circumstances, should get the best start in life.
“The Box contains around 40 different essential items for new babies and for parents. It’s a simple idea with a proven record in tackling deprivation, improving health and supporting parents, and I’m proud and excited that the pilot is now underway.
“Being a parent is the most important but also the most difficult job there is so it's important that parents get as much support as possible. The Box complements the existing services available to help babies and parents to thrive in the crucial early months.”
Mum to be Joan McKinven said: “I’m very impressed with the contents of the box. I think any support will be appreciated by new parents. There are a lot of helpful items so I think it will be well used.”
Gillian Morton, Head of Midwifery at NHS Forth Valley said: “We are delighted that Clackmannanshire has been selected as one of the pilot sites for the new baby boxes. Pregnant women from the local area are really looking forward to receiving their boxes and we are sure the wide range of items will be very useful during those important early weeks and months.”
The Box will also contain a poem specially written by Scotland’s Makar, Jackie Kay, called Welcome Wee One.
"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."