More than 17,000 families across the Highlands have received a Baby Box since the scheme was introduced by the Scottish Government in 2017.
The latest figures reveal that 17,047 boxes have been delivered under NHS Highland, part of a national effort to give every newborn in Scotland the best possible start in life.
Since its launch, 346,959 Baby Boxes have now been distributed across the country.
Each box includes a range of essential items for new babies and their parents from clothing and books to a mattress-lined box that can be safely used as a sleeping space.
Maree Todd, MSP for Caithness, Sutherland and Ross, welcomed the milestone and said the boxes were part of a broader commitment to support families across Scotland.
“It’s fantastic that over 17,000 Baby Boxes have been delivered to families across NHS Highland since the SNP government introduced them in 2017,” she said.
“The Baby Box is part of a much wider offer for new families.”
“Alongside 1,140 hours of free childcare for 3, 4 and eligible 2-year-olds, scrapping the two-child benefit cap, and introducing the Scottish Child Payment, the SNP government is focused on reducing child poverty and easing pressure on parents.”
The Baby Box scheme has become one of the most recognisable and celebrated initiatives of its kind, with Scotland one of the few countries in the world to offer it to all new parents regardless of income.
The design of the box is updated regularly in collaboration with families, and includes items chosen with safety, practicality and wellbeing in mind.
Health professionals across NHS Highland have praised the scheme for its universal reach and early support for families, especially in rural and remote areas.
Maree Todd added that measures like this show the contrast between Scottish and UK-wide policies.
“With initiatives like these, Scotland is by far the best part of the UK to start a family,” she said.
“We will continue to mitigate the harm of Westminster decisions until we have the full powers of independence.”
As the cost of living continues to put pressure on household budgets, Scotland’s Baby Box remains a powerful symbol and practical tool in helping parents feel supported, valued and prepared for the journey ahead.
