The new Sure Start was launched in December 2002. It brings together Government policy on early education, childcare, health and family support.

Sure Start offers all children access to free early education before they start school, more and better childcare and greater help where there is greater need through childcare tax credit, children's centres and Sure Start local programmes. It supports families from pregnancy right through until children are 14, or 16 if they are disabled or have special educational needs. This is the next step in the Government's intention to halve child poverty by 2010 and improve opportunities for all children across the country.

The new Sure Start has a new brand. The new brand is to help the Unit inform people working in the sector and parents that Sure Start is a coherent Government strategy to improve outcomes for children, parents and communities.