Government policies

Sure start

Starting dates June 1999: introduced
Key department Sure Start Unit
Key delivery agency Local authorities, voluntary sector, NHS and government regional offices
Budget/target/comment

Aims: to increase the availability of childcare for all children; to improve health, education and emotional development for young children; and to support parents in their role and in developing their employment aspirations.

By May 2003, around 500 Sure Start programmes were in action, reaching up to one third of under fours living in poverty.

A budget of £1.5 billion in 2005/06, with an additional £669 million by 2007/08.

See the government's Every child matters website.

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