Social disorder linked to gang culture and violent crime

The recent and ongoing tragedies linked to the phenomenon of gangs, drugs, guns, and knives is something of national proportions and of interest to all communities. There is a general perception that the churches can and should make a difference by our interventions and contributions to the national debate and by taking appropriate actions. Indeed it is recognised that many churches and Christian-led initiatives are currently playing crucial roles in addressing this difficult issue.

In the light of this, Minority Ethnic Christian Affairs (MECA) is undertaking a national mapping exercise to bring some clarity to what the churches are doing.   It is anticipated that this mapping exercise will enable us to a) value the contribution of the churches in this matter; b) spot gaps in thinking and provision; c) identify partnership opportunities; and d) provide guidelines for good practice in this area of work.