We work to promote and support maternal health and wellbeing, and early child development. Our aim is to ensure that all children in Scotland have the best possible start in life.

Actions

We are improving early child development and child and maternal health through our Early Child Development Transformational Change Programme (2023), and including:

Background

Our policies to support maternal and child health are part of Getting It Right For Every Child (GIRFEC) - our national approach to improving outcomes and supporting the wellbeing of children and young people.

You can find advice for before and during pregnancy, and for babies and toddlers, on NHS Inform and Parent Club. Parent Club offers practical tips and support for families across Scotland, while NHS Inform provides detailed health information. 

Certification of pregnancy and baby loss prior to 24 weeks

We understand the importance of acknowledging pregnancy and baby loss. That's why we've introduced a Memorial Book of Pregnancy and Baby Loss Prior to 24 weeks. Read information on how to apply for a commemorative certificate and entry in the memorial book.

National Hub for reviewing and learning from the deaths of children and young people

Since October 2021 a National Hub has been in place to review and learn from the deaths of all children and young people in Scotland. The National Hub for reviewing and learning from the deaths of children and young people is administered and managed by Healthcare Improvement Scotland, in partnership with the Care Inspectorate.          

Bills and legislation

The Children and Young People (Scotland) Act 2014

Breastfeeding etc. (Scotland) Act 2005

Contact

Email: Central Enquiries Unit contactus@gov.scot

Telephone: 0300 244 4000

Post:
Improving Health and Wellbeing Division
Children and Families Directorate
Scottish Government
Area 2B (North)
Victoria Quay
Edinburgh
EH6 6QQ

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