Tag: Children and Families

Infant formula: CMA outlines clear path forward to help parents save hundreds of pounds a year

The Competition & Markets Authority has set out comprehensive proposals to deliver better outcomes for parents in the infant formula market – both in terms of the choices they make and the prices they pay

  • CMA infant formula study finds that a combination of factors is leading to poor outcomes for parents, who could be saving around £300 a year by switching to a lower priced brand
  • Issues include the design and operation of current regulations and the responses of consumers to advertising which emphasises branding when, in fact, all infant formula will meet babies’ full nutritional needs
  • CMA heard concerns that parents on lower incomes are disproportionately affected due to higher rates of formula feeding
  • CMA final recommendations cover standardised packaging in hospitals; providing clear information to parents in healthcare and retail settings on the nutritional sufficiency of all infant formula; making it easier to compare prices of different brands; extending the ban on advertising to include follow-on formula; and allowing parents to use vouchers and loyalty points to buy infant formula
  • Given the steer from governments that regulatory restrictions on price promotions of infant formula support breastfeeding, the CMA is not recommending removing this ban at this stage, but stands ready to support further consideration of this option if asked

Following a market study into the infant formula and follow-on formula market, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has issued its final recommendations.

Sarah Cardell, Chief Executive of the CMA, said: “Every parent wants to give their baby the best possible start in life. Many whom need, or choose, to formula feed, pick a brand at a vulnerable moment, based on incomplete information, often believing that higher prices must mean better quality. This is despite NHS advice stating that all brands will meet your baby’s nutritional needs, regardless of brand or price.

“Governments across the UK are committed to the tight regulation of infant formula for public health reasons. So, our proposals are designed to help parents make the best choices for them and their babies, with access to better information, while sharpening the effectiveness of the existing rules.

“Our proposals will also make it easier for regulations to be properly enforced, while ensuring manufacturers and retailers can be more confident in what they can and can’t do according to law.

“We strongly encourage governments to act on the recommendations to stop well-intended regulation driving poor outcomes for consumers. We’re ready to help implement the changes and support thinking around further measures, including removing the ban on price promotions, should governments consider it necessary at a later stage.”

CMA findings

Advertising and labelling of infant formula is strictly regulated. For example, advertisement and promotion, including price reductions or deals, is restricted so as not to discourage breastfeeding.

Many parents choose a brand for the first time in vulnerable circumstances – often in hospital immediately after birth – and frequently without the clear, accurate and impartial information needed to make informed decisions. People often feel under pressure, naturally wanting to do what is best for their baby. Many actively choose a more expensive product, assuming this means better quality.

However, NHS advice makes clear: “It does not matter which brand you choose, they’ll all meet your baby’s nutritional needs, regardless of price”.

Against this backdrop, rather than competing strongly on price, manufacturers place significant emphasis on building brand awareness to secure customers. For example, some regularly supply the NHS with below cost formula to reach new parents – and once parents have found a brand that works for their baby, they rarely switch.

Regulation states that the labelling and presentation of infant and follow-on formulas should be ‘clearly distinct’. Despite this, manufacturers use similar branding and labelling – including similar colour palettes, fonts and imagery – across infant and follow-on formulas. When combined with large marketing budgets, this approach indirectly supports the sale of infant formula, with CMA evidence indicating that parents are disproportionately influenced by such branding practices (be it in hospitals, online or in store).

The CMA heard concerns that parents on lower incomes are more likely to formula feed so are disproportionately impacted by infant formula pricing. While some government support is available to those eligible, most infant formulas exceed the weekly value of benefits available through schemes such as the Healthy Start and Best Start Food. This can lead to parents foregoing food in order to provide for their babies.

On pricing, differences between brands can have a sizeable impact on parents’ finances. Evidence reviewed by the CMA shows that they could make a saving of around £300 over a baby’s first year of life by switching from a popular mid-priced product to a low-priced brand.

Recommendations

The 4 recommendations from the CMA are:

  1. Removing brand influence in healthcare settings: Parents should be provided with timely, clear, accurate and impartial information on nutritional sufficiency of all infant formula products as early as possible. Where parents are given infant formula in healthcare settings, labelling should be standardised to reduce the influence of branding on their decision making. For example, branded formula could be put into non-branded containers, or the NHS could have a white-label formula.
  2. Equipping parents with the right information when they are shopping: Information about nutritional sufficiency should be displayed clearly and prominently on shelves and when buying online. In store, all brands of infant formula should be displayed together and in a separate cluster from other formula milks to enable quick and easy price comparisons.
  3. Strengthening labelling and advertising rules: All packaging should clearly display information on nutritional sufficiency. Claims that are intangible, or cannot be easily checked by parents, should be banned. Like infant formula, advertising (including price promotions and deals) for follow-on milks should be banned. To help shops, manufacturers and enforcers, government should clarify what constitutes ‘advertising’, outlining exactly what shops and manufacturers can and cannot do regarding formula milks. Parents should be allowed to use gift cards, vouchers, loyalty points, and coupons to purchase infant formula.
  4. Effectively enforce current and future rules: Strengthen the roles played by relevant authorities so they must approve the packaging of all infant formula products before sale. At present, companies can put products onto the market before the relevant authority has reviewed the label.

Public Health Minister, Ashley Dalton, said: “I welcome this report and would like to thank the Competition and Markets Authority for their thorough investigation.

“There are many benefits of breastfeeding but for those families that cannot or choose not to breastfeed, it is vital that they can access formula that is affordable and high quality. Families should not be paying over the odds to feed their babies because of outdated regulation.

“As part of our Plan for Change, we’re determined to ensure every child has the best start to life. We will carefully consider these recommendations and respond fully in due course.”

Competition and Markets Minister Justin Madders said: “The government has been clear through our new Strategic Steer to the CMA that competition and consumer protection will drive economic growth.

“That work to drive better outcomes for consumers across the infant formula market delivers on this priority. We look forward to working closely with the CMA across government to continue to deliver growth as part of our Plan for Change.”

Next steps

Recommendations are made to UK, Northern Irish, Scottish and Welsh governments, working in collaboration with other organisations, where appropriate. The CMA will now engage to explain these measures and support their implementation.

For more information on the CMA’s market study, visit the Infant formula and follow-on formula market study.  

Scottish Budget: Edinburgh urged to bid for free school meals extension 

 Local Scottish Green MSP Lorna Slater is calling on Edinburgh to bid to be one of the first councils to sign up for the expansion of free school meals for thousands more S1 – S3 pupils.  

The Scottish Greens have recently secured money for the expansion of free school meals to thousands of S1-S3 pupils who receive the Scottish Child Payment (SCP), starting with eight council areas in August 2025.

This builds on the ongoing rollout to P6 and P7 pupils who receive SCP and the previous extension to all P4 and P5 pupils, both of which were secured by Green MSPs during past rounds of budget negotiations. 

Edinburgh currently has a child poverty rate of 20.4% and around 4,500 of S1-S3 pupils who receive the Scottish Child Payment, a support payment for families on low incomes. 

By signing up to be one of the first councils to receive more free meals for pupils, thousands of local children and families will benefit. 

Eight councils will be chosen for the initial rollout and the Scottish Greens will be pushing the Scottish Government to extend the project to all 32 council areas as soon as possible. 

Lorna Slater the Scottish Greens MSP for Lothian said: “Children can’t learn if they’re hungry. Problems like classroom hunger simply should not exist in a country as wealthy as Scotland. 

“As a result of this work by Green MSPs, thousands more pupils in S1-S3 will now get a free school meal. I hope Edinburgh will volunteer to be one of the first areas to provide these lunches. 

“The Scottish Greens have always championed free school meals. This high school expansion builds on the work we’ve already done to provide more meals in primary schools.  

“No pupils should have to learn on an empty stomach simply because they cannot afford a school lunch. Each and every child in Scotland should have what they need to do well at school, including a free and healthy lunch.” 

Amazon Dunfermline provides support to Scot Baby Box Appeal

The team at Amazon’s fulfilment centre in Dunfermline has delivered products worth £2,500 to Scot Baby Box Appeal.

The Scot Baby Box Appeal supports families with newborns in Ukraine. The charity distributes pre-loved baby boxes filled with essential items, alongside supplies for relief efforts and other critical necessities, helping to ensure that every newborn has a safe and nurturing start.

A group of 92 employees from Amazon in Dunfermline packed and delivered the sorted pallets to the charity’s hub in Coatbridge. The donation included essential items such as toiletries, clothing and drinks.

Alongside the delivery of pallets, seven employees from the Amazon fulfilment centre in Dunfermline volunteered at the charity’s warehouse to support with the team’s sortation and space management support to ensure safe and efficient working conditions for the staff and volunteers at Scot Baby Box Appeal.

The charity has been supported by Amazon since 2022, with the fulfilment centre team in Dunfermline making donations and volunteering for almost three years.

Speaking on the donation, Jamie Strain, General Manager at Amazon in Dunfermline, said: “The team at Scot Baby Box Appeal provides excellent support to families across Scotland and Ukraine.

“Amazon in Dunfermline has a longstanding relationship with the team at Scot Baby Box Appeal and we’re pleased to contribute once again to the efforts of the staff and volunteers with this donation.”

Christina Watson, an employee from Amazon in Dunfermline who took part in the kitting event, said: “I’m pleased that I can take part in supporting the charity for a second time this year and I can’t wait to see the relationship between Amazon Dunfermline and Scot Baby Box grow even further.”

Gail Maguire, from Scot Baby Box Appeal, added: “Thank you to Jamie and the team at Amazon in Dunfermline for their continued support with this donation. Their help is always greatly appreciated, especially on the run up to Christmas.”

Community donations and employee volunteering are just two of the ways Amazon supports the communities where it operates. Amazon co-founded The Big House Multibank in Fife with former UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown to support to families in need.

The Multibank network has now donated more than 3 million surplus goods to over 400,000 families across Scotland, Wales, Greater Manchester, and London.

Amazon has supported more than 700,000 students across the UK with free STEM education programmes through Amazon Future Engineer and helps community organisations transport meals and other essentials to families in need through its pro bono logistics programme, Amazon Local Good.

Amazon partners with Comic Relief and is the official home of the charity’s iconic Red Nose. Together with its employees, customers, and partners, Amazon has raised over £4.8 million to fund projects that support people across the UK, and around the world.

Jumpstart Your Child’s Fitness Journey

Edinburgh Leisure’s Taster Week for Under 5s

Encourage your pre-school child to get active from an early age by signing up for Play & Try coached activities. As the largest provider of sport and leisure facilities across the city, Edinburgh Leisure is well-placed to encourage your child to reach their full potential, help them build confidence, learn skills, and meet friends.

Edinburgh Leisure is offering a taster week from 17th February – 21st February where new and existing customers can come and try coached activities for under 5s for £3.00 per session.

Tailored for little ones, from babies to pre-schoolers, these fun and engaging sessions are all about having a blast while exploring the first steps into various sports.

Classes include Gym and Jump, Gym Nippers, Swim Baby, Swim Nippers, Swim Toddler, Jump & Dive Skills, Jump Into Sport, Football Mini Kickers and Kick Starters.

Sessions will be offered at Ainslie Park, Craiglockhart Tennis Centre, Drumbrae Leisure Centre, Gracemount Leisure Centre, Kirkliston Leisure Centre, Leith Victoria Swim Centre, Portobello Swim Centre, the Royal Commonwealth Pool, Tumbles at Portobello, and Warrender Swim Centre and are suitable for babies and toddlers.

For those that loved the taster sessions, parents can sign up their child/children for a coaching course at the venue on the same day, with the February fee waived.*

Wherever you’re at on the map or in life, Edinburgh Leisure is here to help the people of Edinburgh enjoy a healthier, happier, and more active life. And it’s never too early to start.

Book your spot today for just £3.00 per session:

www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/under5s-sports-tasters

Jump into February Half Term Fun at Gravity Active Edinburgh

It’s officially time to put down the screens and jump into a world of excitement at Gravity Active Edinburgh.

From February 15th to 23rd, Gravity Active are offering a jam-packed lineup of activities that promise non-stop fun for all ages, perfect for letting kids blow off steam after completing the first term of the year.

Whether you’re bouncing through the air, tackling climbing walls, or dancing under neon lights, there’s truly something for everyone.

Action-packed adventures for all ages

Get ready for thrilling Open Jump sessions, high-energy Daytime Discos, inflatable obstacle courses, and challenging climbing walls. Better yet, with so many activities on offer, parents will never hear “I’m bored” again! Plus, it’s a fantastic way to keep children fit and active over the break.

The Open Jump sessions give you full access to all activity areas—perfect for showing off your moves or just jumping for fun. For a high-energy twist, the Daytime Discos mix trampolining with a dance party atmosphere. Music, lights, and plenty of bouncing make for a perfect family outing.

Climbing, inflatables and more!

Scale new heights on the Gravity Rocks climbing walls, or race through the inflatable adventure zones for guaranteed laughs and thrills. When the sun sets, the fun continues with After Dark sessions—glow sticks, neon lights, and even more jumping and dancing.

Refuel and relax

To fuel all that energy, the Gravity Active Café offers a selection of delicious snacks, refreshing drinks, and sweet treats, giving you the perfect place to refuel and relax during your adventure, while keeping you close to all the fun.

Book your half-term adventure today!

Don’t miss out on the action – book your spot today and get ready to jump, climb, and dance your way through an unforgettable half term.

For more information or to book your session, visit:

 https://gravity-global.com/blog/february-half-term-fun-at-gravity-active.

Homelessness : 350% increase in families in temporary accomodation

  • A shocking freedom of information request from Capital Letters has revealed that families in temporary accommodation with four children have experienced the sharpest rise, with a 350% increase, followed by couples with three children at 123.81%. 
  • The freedom of information request from Capital Letters also revealed a 219.3% rise in temporary homelessness overall in Edinburgh. There has been a 118.1% increase in couples with children in temporary accommodation, including council-owned housing, B&Bs, and hostels.  
  • Expert advice and comment from Capital Letters. Capital Letters has revealed that families in temporary accommodation with four children have experienced the sharpest rise, with a 350% increase, followed by couples with three children at 123.81%.
  • The freedom of information request from Capital Letters also revealed a 219.3% rise in temporary homelessness overall in Edinburgh.
  • There has been a 118.1% increase in couples with children in temporary accommodation, including council-owned housing, B&Bs, and hostels.
  • Expert advice and comment from Capital Letters.

4,935 individuals were in temporary accommodation in Edinburgh at the start of the New Year according to a freedom of information request submitted by Capital Letters.

Temporary accommodation is often a last resort for society’s most vulnerable people who lack a place to call home.

They may be fleeing domestic violence, leaving care or being victims of a no-fault eviction, unable to locate suitable housing in time.

There has been a 219.36% increase in people being placed in temporary accommodation in Edinburgh between 2019 and 2024 according to a freedom of information request by Capital Letters.

Temporary accommodation in Edinburgh includes local authority housing as well as hostels and B&Bs.

There has been a 291% increase in individuals being placed in B&Bs from 2019 to 2024.

Heartbreakingly, many residents of temporary accommodation are children.

There were 397 couples with children in temporary accommodation in December 2024, a 118.1% increase from January 2019.

Families with four children saw the largest increase in temporary accommodation occupancy since 2019, rising by 350%.

Couples with three children came second with a 123.81% increase.

Couples with five children came third with 80%.

In fourth place came couples with two children who had a 56.10% increase.

Families with one child experienced a 59.9% increase since 2019.

Finally, families with 5 children stayed consistent between both periods.

Steven Strachan from Capital Letters who submitted the freedom of information request revealing the shocking data commented: “Facing eviction can be a stressful and overwhelming experience especially when there are children involved.

“There are steps you can take to manage the situation and protect your rights. Here are some tips if you find yourself facing eviction.”:

Understand the Eviction Notice

“There are different types of eviction notices (e.g., section 21, section 8, or notice to quit). Make sure you understand what the notice is for and whether it is valid. Ensure it follows legal procedures, including the proper notice period.”

Seek professional advice

“If you are unsure about the notice, seek legal advice from organisations like Shelter, Citizens Advice, or a solicitor who specialises in housing law who can clarify your rights and options.”

Communicate with Your Landlord

“If you’re able, speak to your landlord as soon as possible. Sometimes, an agreement can be reached, such as extending your tenancy, negotiating payment plans, or allowing you to stay while you find alternative housing.”

Document everything

“Keep a record of all communications with your landlord, including emails, letters, and phone calls. This could be helpful if there are any disputes later.”

Know Your Rights

“In the United Kingdom, tenants have protection from eviction in most cases, especially if they have lived in the property for more than six months. In certain circumstances, eviction may not be possible unless the landlord has obtained a court order. Legal aid may be available for those who are eligible.”

Check for Illegal Eviction

“Landlords cannot evict tenants without following proper legal procedures. If your landlord tries to evict you without a court order or changes the locks without notice, this is considered an illegal eviction. If this happens, you can contact the authorities for help.”

Start Looking for new Accommodation

“It’s wise to start looking for a new place to live as soon as possible. Start searching online or contact local housing associations and letting agents.”

Improving miscarriage care

£1.5 million to support delivery of compassionate, high-quality care

Women can expect improved miscarriage care Public Health and Women’s Health Minister Jenni Minto has pledged, after unveiling a new framework, backed by £1.5 million funding.

The framework sets out a range of actions for Scotland’s NHS boards to implement, including ensuring that women going through miscarriage have a separate, private space. It will introduce a graded model of miscarriage care across the country. This means all women can receive tailored support and services, and won’t have to wait until a third miscarriage. This will include access to progesterone prescriptions – where clinically appropriate – both for threatened and recurrent miscarriage.

These changes will be supported by £1.5 million Scottish Government funding and aim to ensure that early pregnancy care is equitable so that no women are disadvantaged, regardless of where they access and receive care.

The Minister for Public Health and Women’s Health said: “The loss of a baby, no matter at what stage of pregnancy, has a profound and lasting impact on women and their families.

“To all who have experienced such a tragedy, I offer my deepest sympathy. The Scottish Government recognises this impact and is clear that women and families who have experienced pregnancy or baby loss must be provided with the right information, care and support, tailored to their individual circumstances.

“I am very grateful to everyone in Scotland’s NHS who works to provide miscarriage care and support.

“I know there is already a lot of good work underway within NHS Boards to improve miscarriage care services. The 2025-26 Budget, if approved by Parliament, will provide £1.5 million to support NHS Boards to improve delivery of sensitive and compassionate miscarriage care.”

Kath Abrahams, Chief Executive of pregnancy charity Tommy’s commented: “We are delighted to see the Delivery Framework for Miscarriage Care in Scotland launching today.

“The Framework is a real milestone on the path to excellent care for women and families in Scotland and Tommy’s has been pleased to work closely with our colleagues in Scottish Government as they have developed the Framework, which aims to ensure the right support and care for parents after every tragic loss.

“With compassionate care at its heart, we are looking forward to continuing to support our Scottish colleagues as they oversee the rollout.”

The Miscarriage Association’s Chief Executive Vicki Robinson said: “We are extremely pleased to see the publication of this important Framework for Miscarriage Care in Scotland, which represents a significant step forward in ensuring that those experiencing miscarriage receive the compassionate, high-quality care they deserve during such a heart-breaking time.

“This framework is a vital step in providing evidence-based care and offering women additional support in early pregnancy. We are proud to have contributed to its development and look forward to seeing it bring positive change. This is a crucial milestone in ensuring that miscarriage care is accessible, equitable, and compassionate across Scotland.”