Baby boxes are on their way to new parents in Renfrewshire and East Renfrewshire.

The delivery of the boxes, containing essential items such as clothes, books and blankets, got under way yesterday.

Inspired by Finnish baby boxes, they can also be used for babies to sleep in.

And, as the baby box rollout begins, new parents are being urged to consider safe sleeping practices for their newborns.

Boxes issued under the Scottish scheme have been awarded British Safety Standard accreditation as a crib for domestic use, the Scottish Government said.

Safe sleep guidance is provided in a leaflet inside the box and safety guidelines are also printed on the box lid.

Dr Catherine Calderwood, Chief Medical Officer for Scotland, said: “All parents should think about sleeping practices at the earliest possible stage, even before their baby is born.

“Early evaluation shows the scheme is helping raise awareness of safe sleeping practices and we are committed to evaluating how the baby box is helping families across Scotland. It is important parents make the safe sleeping choice that is right for them and anyone needing more information should speak to their health visitor or midwife.’’