I WRITE in relation to the latest statistics published by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) concerning youth unemployment ("Jobless young 'fall between cracks'", The Herald, April 16).

Overall total employment in Scotland is at its highest since records began with 2,575,000 people over the age of 16 now in work. However, it is concerning to see unemployment amongst 16-24-year-olds rising in Scotland, especially as these latest figures show a 7% increase on last year.

There is little doubt that our young people were amongst the hardest hit by the economic downturn and they continue to be at a significant disadvantage during our fragile recovery as jobs and opportunities remain few.

Whilst we are beginning to see a slight improvement, there is obviously still much to do to help get Scotland's young people on the path to work. By investing time and effort in our young people, on both personal and political levels, it will pay dividends in the future.

We must continue to unlock the talent in this generation and equip our young people with the confidence and skills they need to succeed. The Boys' Brigade is committed to reaching as many young people as possible and showing them how to utilise their strengths and interests to their advantage and make sure they are able to seize opportunities that may arise, whether it's paid work or volunteering.

The latest unemployment figures show us that much more work remains to be done before Scotland can reap the rewards of an engaged and employed youth.

Bill Stevenson,

Director for Scotland, The Boys' Brigade, Carronvale House, Carronvale Road, Larbert.