Local MSP Kenneth Gibson is encouraging all expectant mothers whose babies are due on or after 15 August, to register for a baby box at their next midwife appointment.

These boxes, containing various essential items for a child’s first weeks and months, signal the SNP Government’s commitment to ensuring that every child in Scotland, regardless of their circumstances, should get the best start in life.

Furthermore, the SNP Government is using new powers to create new Maternity and Early Years’ Allowances, providing expectant mothers on low incomes with £600 for their first child, £300 for second and subsequent children, with low-income families receiving a further £250 grant when their child starts nursery, and again when they start school.

Mr Gibson said: “The SNP Government is providing a Baby Box to every child in Scotland to help tackle deprivation, improve health and support parents. This is just one part of our work to ensure every child has an equal start in life.

“With new powers coming to Scotland, the SNP Government will also provide targeted support to help low income families via our Maternity and Early Years’ Allowances.

“For mothers in looking forward to welcoming a new born into the world on or before 15 August, all they need to do to be gifted a Baby Box is to apply through their midwife in advance, supplying the address they want the Baby Box delivered to.

“The Baby Boxes are full of useful items such as books, clothes, blankets, a bath towel, a changing mat, a bib and a thermometer, while also providing a safe space for babies to sleep near their parents, to promote bonding and early attachment, and send a signal that every child, regardless their background, matters.”