1,521 families in the Borders have benefitted from the delivery of a Baby Box since their introduction in 2017.

Across Scotland, over 80,000 Baby Boxes have been delivered.

The concept of the Baby Box has its roots in Finland and has been shown to decrease infant mortality rates.

The boxes themselves double up as a safe place for newborn children to sleep and contain a variety of essential items to help parents care for their babies in the first weeks and months of life.

The Scottish government recently announced a new Baby Box design, created by a group of schoolchildren from across Scotland, in time for Mother’s Day.

SNP MSP for Midlothian South, Tweeddale and Lauderdale, Christine Grahame, is delighted that the boxes have proved to be so popular. She said: “Every child, regardless of their circumstances, should get the best start in life.

“At the heart of the Baby Box is a message about fairness and opportunity, which is why I’m delighted to see that 1521 of new families have benefitted from it in the Borders.

“96% of expectant parents in Scotland are now requesting a Baby Box – and more than 80,000 have been delivered.

“That’s a huge vote of confidence in the Baby Box.

“Given how beneficial they are to parents and newborns, long may that continue.”