I AM writing in response to two letters printed about teenage mothers (End the hand-outs, Sept 18 and 22).

I was appalled that there are still people who believe themselves well-adjusted members of the community, yet who share such ignorant, narrow-minded views.

There is no denying some teenage mothers drag their children up, but I feel certain they are in the minority.

For every so-called bad teenage mother, there is a bad married mother of an age society deems acceptable.

I gave birth aged 17 after falling pregnant aged 16, and I resent the generalisation that I am unable to care for my child with the love and support that children require and deserve.

Being a teenage mother is hard; I am lucky to have the support not only of my friends and family, but of the Government.

The Government funded a nursery place for my son, which allowed me to continue with my studies and find gainful employment.

I work hard, ensuring that my son is brought up properly, to be polite and respectful of others, and that he has three proper meals a day, usually cooked and prepared by myself.

I am not sure what has led Mrs Causnett to believe young mothers can not cook.

The belief that young mothers should be forced to hand their babies to care homes is completely inhumane.

This would not only be disastrous to the mental health and wellbeing of these girls, but their children also.

I had to miss out on a lot when I had to grow up so suddenly and unexpectedly, but I am proud to think that in having my son, I have contributed to a future generation who I am positive will be tolerant of others, and who will have learned not to judge people on face value.

Charlotte Hoque, Dane Avenue, Acomb, York.