THOUSANDS of newborns across Ayrshire have benefited from a baby boxes supplied by the Scottish

Government.

New figures have revealed that 7,516 babies have had a helping hand with a box containing essential items.

Each box contains a selection of clothes, as well as everyday must-haves, like a bath towel, a travel changing mat, muslin cloth squares, a bib, a digital thermometer and books.

Health secretary SNP MSP Jeane Freeman has hailed the success of the boxes.

Ms Freeman 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 tackling inequality, improving health and supporting new parents - which is why I’m delighted to see that have been sent to families across Ayrshire and Arran, including here in my Carrick, Cumnock and Doon Valley constituency.

“96% of expectant parents are now requesting a Baby Box – and more than 120,000 have been delivered across Scotland.

“That’s a huge vote of confidence in the Baby Box, which will be vitally important in our efforts to ensure that all children get the best start in life.”