£1.5m for early baby families
Parents of premature babies have been given a £1.5 million boost to cover the crippling cost of travelling to hospitals.
It comes after evidence suggests cash-strapped parents are struggling to make the cost of daily trips from home over months.
Evidence shows that bonding between mum and baby in the first few months of life is vital.
Every year, around 4400 babies are born more than a month before full term in Scotland.
Research shows the extra cost to parents – such as travel to and from hospital, and buying food and drinks there – is around £200 a week.
The helping hand was launched by the Scottish Government last week.
Health secretary Shona Robison said: “Becoming a parent should be the best feeling in the world, but if a baby is born prematurely and needs neonatal care it’s an anxious time.
“We also know that it can be expensive, so we have looked at the support available to parents.
“This new national Family Fund of at least £1.5 million will be available to parents regardless of income.”
Premature baby charity Bliss welcomed the cash.
Chief executive Caroline Lee-Davey said: “This fund will help more parents to be with their baby for as much time as possible. They will be able to play a hands-on role in their babies’ care.
“We know that is best for babies and families.”