MORE than 10,000 baby boxes have now been delivered to new parents in Scotland in just two months.

The Scottish Government also said registration for the boxes has reached 20,000 since the nationwide roll-out of the innovative scheme in August.

Under the baby box programme, which is aimed at tackling inequality and promoting health, new parents receive a box of essential items for their baby such as clothes, books and blankets.

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The boxes, which are inspired by Finnish baby boxes, can also be used for babies to sleep in.

Announcing the 10,000 box delivery, Scotland’s Childcare and Early Years Minister Mark McDonald said: “I want every child born in Scotland to have the best start in life and the baby box is a key part of that.

“It is great to see so many new and expectant parents receiving and registering for their boxes.

“The feedback we have had so far is very positive and we will continue to work with parents to ensure the contents of the box meet their needs.”

The boxes meet the highest safety standards and have been awarded British Safety Standard accreditation as a crib. Safe sleep guidance is provided in a leaflet inside the box and safety guidelines are also printed on the box lid.

According to the chief medical officer for Scotland, Dr Catherine Calderwood, early evaluation has shown the scheme is helping raise awareness of safe sleeping practices.

The Scottish Cot Death Trust says the safest place for a baby to sleep is in a cot, crib or Moses basket, but the box can be used, particularly where families have no alternative.