More than 39,000 Baby Boxes were delivered to families across Scotland in 2025 as part of the Scottish Government’s efforts to tackle child poverty and support early years development.
The milestone brings the total number of children supported by the Baby Box programme to more than 360,000 since it was introduced nationwide in 2017.
Backed by almost £8 million of funding in 2025 to 26, the programme provides families with essential items needed during the first six months of a child’s life, alongside a safe and secure space for babies to sleep.
The Baby Box is offered universally, ensuring every family has access regardless of income or background, with around 89 percent of parents with a newborn registering to receive one.
The scheme includes practical items such as clothing for babies aged 0 to 6 months, a changing mat, play mat, bath and room thermometer, baby books, a carrier sling, and a redeemable voucher for reusable nappies.
Support for breastfeeding is also included, with breast pads and guidance on how to access local support services.
Shirley-Anne Somerville said the programme reflected a clear commitment to giving every child the best possible start.
“The Baby Box programme, the only one of its kind in the UK, shows our determination that every child, regardless of their circumstances, should get the best start in life.
“I would encourage anyone expecting to become a parent in 2026 to take advantage of the programme and sign up for a Box, which can benefit them by £400 per child.
“We are working on proposals to enhance the contents of the Box by the end of this Parliament, based on feedback from parents and frontline practitioners working with families, to strengthen the support children receive from birth.”
The Baby Box programme first opened for registration on the 15th of June 2017, with the initial Boxes delivered from August that year.
Since then, the scheme has become a central part of Scotland’s early years support, combining universal access with practical help aimed at easing costs during the earliest stages of parenthood.
The 2025 to 26 Programme for Government includes a commitment to enhance the contents of the Baby Box by March 2026, building on feedback from parents and professionals to strengthen early child development and help mitigate the impact of poverty.
