SIR - Even before coronavirus hit, more than four million children were living in poverty in the UK. Now our most vulnerable children and families face tough challenges, as the financial and emotional impact of this pandemic hit home. Action for Children is determined not to let this generation of lockdown children become a lost one.  

For over two decades I’ve taken part in the charity’s annual sleep-out. Before the pandemic this meant bedding down in a London location, getting little sleep and being chilled to the bone. Yet I got to go home for a shower, something to eat, and soon felt normal again.

For the vulnerable families that Action for Children works with hardship is ‘normal’ - worry over paying bills, not being able to feed or clothe their children.

Last year Action for Children's Coronavirus Emergency Fund provided essentials like food and clothes to around 20,000 children and young people. Frontline key workers kept 99per cent of services open. 

You can Boycott Your Bed on July 9 to help out.  I'm asking families to ditch the duvet and bunk down somewhere unusual in their homes or gardens. Last year I slept in my treehouse!

No child should go to bed hungry, or lie awake feeling frightened about how their family is going to cope. Sign up at boycottyourbed.co.uk 

Jenny Agutter, Action for Children Ambassador