I AM a 17-year-old student studying in full-time education.

Every hour of my time is dedicated to studies, training for competitions or working to earn money to support my life and hobbies.

Recently, while at work my phone was stolen from behind the counter. I cannot understand how or why anyone could justify stealing it.

It has been blocked and blacklisted so anyone trying to unblock it will be caught.

However, I will have to buy a replacement (keeping in mind I work on minimum wage) when my old one is of no use to anyone but me.

This is very frustrating. I work very hard when others deem it perfectly acceptable to take from people like me – especially when it has no benefit to them.

The unemployment rate for young people is very high.

I wonder why when today has cost me more going to work than it would have if I’d not been in employment or education and claiming benefits.

Heather Gore, Darlington.