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SPAC NATION
UK News

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

by Tola Mbakwe

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.

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 News, 55 percent of the congregation have been previously involved in crime.

Listen to Premier's Tola Mbakwe speaking with Pastor Nathan Oki from SPAC Nation here:

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