As part of a state pilot programme, 500 expectant parents will receive a “little baby bundle” worth 300 euros.
The New Parents Bundle includes helpful items “to support new parents after the birth” such as a reusable nappy, nursing pads, and bibs.
Starting February 2023, 500 expectant parents in two hospitals will be invited to participate in this pilot by filling out a form after a 20-week scan at their hospital.
The baby pack will be delivered to participating parents’ homes at a time of their choosing and their feedback will provide suggestions for a wider rollout.
The program was created by the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Inclusion and Youth, Roderic O’Gorman, in partnership with Rotunda Hospital and University Hospital Waterford.
“The gift is an acknowledgement from the State of the very significant and special moment for parents, and is designed to promote the health and wellbeing of newborns and support new parents in the first days and weeks after the birth of a baby,” the Department said in a statement, reports RTE.
Minister O’Gorman said the first weeks of a newborn’s life were ‘so special for families’.
“We want to help new parents by providing them with practical supports while they navigate those first few weeks and months,” reports RTE.
Important health messages relating to breastfeeding, safe sleep and postpartum depression are also provided in Irish and English.
Package includes hooded bath towel, baby vest, gauze, socks, diaper cream, reusable diaper, reusable diaper pads, nipple cream, nursing pads, maternity pads, reusable wipes, digital/smart thermometer, hair brush soft bristles, children’s books in Irish and English, a play mat, a bath and room thermometer, a teether, a baby blanket, gloves, a manual breast pump, a bath sponge, a baby blanket, a sling , a soft ball, a baby toothbrush, a baby monitor, a nasal aspirator, a travel bag, a changing mat, a Dribble Big, a bib, a hat and a duvet.
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