TOO many young people are still feeling the effects of the worst recession in recent history.

Those with fewest qualifications are being pushed further back in the queue for work, leaving thousands stranded in the dole queue. This month, the Prince’s Trust and The Royal Bank of Scotland Group have released their Cost of Exclusion report which revealed how much this youth disadvantage is costing the UK.

In Yorkshire alone, youth unemployment could cost up to £16 million a week through benefits and lost productivity. Even a conservative estimate suggests youth unemployment costs per week for Yorkshire would be more than £5 million.

The Prince’s Trust can give young people the skills and confidence to leave the dole queue for good for a fraction of this cost. It is possible to help young people into jobs while saving the state billions. Government, charities and employers must work together now.

To find out more visit princes-trust.org.uk or phone 0800 842 842.

Samantha Kennedy, Regional director for The Prince’s Trust in Yorkshire and The Humber.