A north-east charity aimed at helping struggling families with newly-born children, has received a boost to expand its activities.
The Moray Baby Bank was established following founders Susan and Ian Sutherland’s travails while trying to feed and clothe their son 30 years ago.
Shortly before last Christmas, the couple were reminded of their struggles when speaking to a friend of a family in a similar plight with a teenager who was pregnant.
The couple has since joined together with others to help new parents who are toiling financially by offering help in gathering toys, clothes, prams and other items.
Now, the Urquhart-based charity has been given extra help extending its support after NHS Grampian agreed to back a referral form to allow midwives and health visitors to highlight families they feel need extra backing.
Moray MP Douglas Ross stepped in to support the group during its discussions with the health service after issues were raised about using the referral form.
He said: “I’m pleased the Baby Bank will now be able to work together with NHS Grampian in moving forward to deliver this important service.
“It was also a good opportunity for me to be able to hand over some clothes that our baby son Alistair has outgrown already.
“He has grown so quickly, so I know just how hard it is keeping up with the needs of a new born.
“This has really brought it home to me just how vital the work done by the charity is.”
The Moray Baby Bank operates on a similar principle to food banks with cases referred to them by professional organisations who have had contact with families they consider need support.
Mr Sutherland explained that being able to secure referrals form the NHS would allow the charity to better assist local families struggling to keep up with the costs of providing for their babies.
He said: “As a result of Douglas’ intervention, we have been able to address all their issues with our referral form.
“NHS Grampian is now fully on board with the Moray Baby Bank and we look forward to receiving many referrals from local health visitors and midwives to help those parents and guardians in need of our service.”