SIR –It is a sobering thought that around a quarter of children living in Bradford are growing up in poverty. Too many are living without the basics that others take for granted – clean clothes, a bed of their own and books to read at bedtime.

Worryingly, a new report by The Prince’s Trust and RBS reveals that there is nothing short of an aspiration chasm between the region’s richest and poorest young people, with those from deprived homes feeling that it will be impossible for them to achieve their goals. We simply cannot ignore this inequality.

If we fail to support our vulnerable young people now, Yorkshire could end up with a youth underclass who feel that they have no future.

Prince’s Trust schemes boost young people’s confidence, while making a positive impact in their communities. Crucially, they also help to break the cycle of poverty.

But The Prince’s Trust cannot support these young people alone. Only by working with employers and local authorities can we raise aspirations, transforming lives.

We are encouraging school-leavers looking for new skills and a confidence boost this summer to visit princes-trust.org.uk/NCS to find out more.

Samantha Kennedy, regional director for The Prince’s Trust in Yorkshire and The Humber, Wade House, The Merrion Centre, Leeds