Baby boxes should be given to all new parents across the UK, midwives have said.

The Royal College of Midwives has published a new position statement setting out its support for universal roll-out after they were introduced across Clydebank and the rest of Scotland last August.

It says the boxes can be a “positive significant investment” in early years, and may contribute to reducing inequality.

In England, some NHS trusts have introduced pilot schemes or full baby box schemes over the last two years. Wales and Northern Ireland do not have any such schemes.

The boxes, which contain essential items for newborns, are also promoted as a safe place for babies to sleep.

The RCM said provision of the boxes is likely to reduce the risks associated with unsafe co-sleeping, particularly in more deprived communities.

The RCM stressed that boxes must be safe, of high quality and the box and mattress should meet at least the minimum UK safety standards.

The organisation acknowledged there is “limited evidence” around baby boxes reducing deaths from SUDI.

Earlier this year, cot death expert Dr Peter Blair raised concerns about the promotion of the boxes for sleeping.

The Scottish Government said its baby box conforms to all relevant safety standards currently in place for a crib or cradle.

Gill Walton, of RCM, said: “A baby box is a positive gift which signals that every baby is important and welcomed.

“Providing them will help many families whatever their background, and provide a more equal start to life for the baby.

“Most importantly by enabling parents to give their babies a safe sleeping space, baby boxes may reduce unsafe co-sleeping or babies sleeping in an inappropriate place, such as a sofa.”