An organisation dedicated to helping troubled families is working to create a more "seasoned'' staff, thanks to a donation by the Centennial Trust.

Peter Carey, administrative director of the Family Learning Centre, said two psychologists from Boston have been providing weekly telephone supervision and quarterly training for their staff.

"Most (of the local consultants) are young, recent grads, and they need to have the support of people with 20 years experience as long as they need it,'' he said.

"They've also provided a series of lectures and presentations to our peers in the community, Government and private organisations.

"We're working so hard to build our standards and expertise, and we wanted to share that as much as possible.'' The Family Learning Centre, which recently moved into the newly-renovated building The Stables, is geared toward helping children between the ages of five and 12 by using the "Family Systems Approach''.

The theory behind the approach is that in order to help children experiencing "multiple difficulties'', it is imperative to work with the entire family to provide new skills for parents, possibly different living arrangements, new routines and new activities for the child.

"There may be relationship issues, abuse or drug involvement -- and a child who is acting out or having trouble in school is a barometer,'' said Mr.

Carey.

"And we will continue to work with the (Boston) psychologists until those that work with us are well seasoned.'' Centennial Trust representative David Lang echoed Mr. Carey's sentiments, stating: "The Centennial Trust is delighted to be supporting the Family Learning Centre.

"The Family Systems Concept focuses on strengthening children and their families, which is so important in today's hectic and vulnerable world.''