I READ Matthew Woodcock's article "Task Force for Youngsters" with interest (July 14).

Let's hope it works. Years go by and still we have not sorted out a scheme that meets young people's expectations.

Over the years young people have been consulted and thousands of pounds have been spent on plans and people examining kids' needs.

And what is the result? Nothing. I think young people are getting less confident in those supposed to be meeting their needs.

Kids know what they want without paying thousands of pounds on paperwork and ideas.

The teenage pregnancy situation often arises from a lack of affection and families that are split apart by trauma and social problems. I am not sure if society will win on that one.

The loser in all this is the benefit system, which pays for all these babies born to young mums. Many families find themselves in a social trap, unable to get back on their feet to enjoy the concept of living as a family.

Some call it bad parenting. I blame society, television and the messages we send out which mislead and direct people to an immoral lifestyle.

How on earth can we, as a society, blame young people and ask them to move forward?

Adults have to lead the way.

Keith Chapman,

Custance Walk,

St Benedict Road,

Nunnery Lane, York.

Updated: 11:01 Monday, July 18, 2005