Advocate calls for implementation of baby boxes in the United Kingdom

A woman, Toyin Odumala, who was abandoned as a baby, is campaigning for the introduction of baby boxes in the UK. These baby boxes, which are already in place in the US, China, and Europe, provide a safe place for parents who cannot care for their child to leave them. Toyin's petition comes after a recent incident where a baby girl was found abandoned in a shopping bag in London. The government has stated that it is investing in maternity services through NHS England. Toyin, who was abandoned outside a block of flats in London as a baby, is calling for an end to babies being left on the street. She discovered the truth about her abandonment when she was 11, which left her with many questions about why she was abandoned. Despite the opportunity to make contact with her birth mother, Toyin is currently not interested in meeting her and is instead focused on making changes for abandoned children. The baby boxes, which are temperature-controlled and equipped with a sensor to alert emergency services, have already gained over 30,000 signatures on Toyin's online petition. However, organizations like Save the Children do not support the baby hatch scheme, as they believe it contradicts the rights of the child to be known and cared for by their parents. Save the Children advocates for more support and help for families to prevent abandonment and ensure every child has the best start in life. Toyin hopes that her campaign will prompt the government to consider the idea of baby boxes in the UK. The Department of Health and Social Care has not commented on the petition but has prioritized improving care before, during, and after pregnancy. They have also expanded mental health services for new and expectant mothers.