Church sets up safe houses for gang members wanting to leave life of crime

Pastors from Spac Nation Church have spearheaded the new project.

There have been 63 fatal stabbings in the capital this year.

Senior pastor Tobi Adegboyega told Sky News many of the youngsters he sees are missing out on a real childhood.

“In our community now, teenage years are drugs and knives.  Most times it’s [the project] their first chance. These guys haven’t seen the other part of life. Then they can make a decision if they want to live right or not.”

So far more than 100 young people have taken part in the scheme. They are also helped with education and employment while they’re there.

Those under 18 require permission from their local authority in order to be allowed to live in a safe house.

Our Safe Houses aren’t just houses, they are homes

Welcome to the LOVE HOUSE – a home full of fun, food and fascinating stories.

These homes are continuously changing the lives of many people whilst equipping them to become Nation takers!#SPACNation pic.twitter.com/14qLSaIBQJ

— SPAC Nation (@SPACnation) September 17, 2019

Shadow home secretary, Diane Abbott has backed the initiative.

The representative for Hackney North and Stoke Newington said the safe houses seem to be working and would be part of a solution.

The church has been known for focusing on tackling violent crime.

It has encouraged people to turn in drugs and knives at the altar.

According to Sky…