UKRAINIANS visited a centre for children with special needs and complex disabilities to get tips for developing services in their country.

Thirteen ministers and senior officials visited Phoenix Children's Resource Centre, Masons Hill, Bromley.

The centre is being used by Bromley Council in a pilot scheme for the Early Support programme, which helps parents plan care for children with special needs.

Staff have been working with centres across the country and have gained national recognition for their efforts.

The centre assesses children's needs and also provides services, including different types of therapy.

It also has a pre-school and offers a scheme where teachers visit children in their own homes.

The Ukraine is attempting to develop community services and reduce the numbers of disabled children in institutions.

Mencap recommended the Phoenix centre fora visit.

Head of pre-school special education needs services Helen Norris said: "We are very pleased to hear the Phoenix has been recognised at international level."