main content Opening doors to success

Bromley Council's Phoenix Centre at Masons Hill, Bromley, opened its doors to distinguished visitors earlier this month to showcase its highly acclaimed Early Support Programme for young disabled children.

Professionals from across the country, and from as far afield as France, Portugal and Italy, flocked to the Centre for an opportunity to learn more about this programme which has put the child and the family firmly at the centre of service provision.  Helen Norris, Head of Pre-School Services, SEN, and Head Teacher of the Phoenix Centre, who has worked with the Government and National Team developing the programme said: "The programme ensures that children with complex needs, and their families, receive the help they need quickly.  Parents are actively involved in the process and their views help develop the service."

The programme has resulted in effective multi-agency working between education, health, social services and voluntary organisations.  An important feature of the programme is that a key worker co-ordinates services from all of the agencies involved in caring for and supporting the child and family.

Graham Arthur, Bromley's Executive Councillor for Children and Young People, said: "I am extremely proud of the excellent work being carried out at the Phoenix Centre in support of local families.  I hope that the visitors can learn from their visit and take with them new ideas which will help to improve and develop their services".

Another open day is planned for 28 June 2005.

ENDS

Notes to editors:

• For further information about Bromley's Early Support Programme please contact Helen Norris, Head of Pre-School Services (SEN) at the Phoenix Centre on 020 8466 8811/0414, and Dr Jenny Selway, Consultant in Public Health Medicine, Bromley PCT on 01689 880691 or the Bromley Early Support Team on 020 8466 0414, e-mail:  espp.general@phoenixsch.org.uk.
• Information on the national Early Support Programme can be found on www.earlysupport.org.uk.
• Further information on Portage can be found on Bromley Portage and information on other pre-school SEN services can be found on Pre-School Special Educational Needs.
• Information about Bromley Council’s Education and Libraries Services can be found on Education.
• For media enquiries, please contact Kevin Gerred, planning and communication officer, on 020 8313 4024, e-mail:  kevin.gerred@bromley.gov.uk.