Inevitably, the idea that people might move from well-off areas into
deprived neighbourhoods catches the eye, but there is very much more to this report, and its ideas provide a practical framework for addressing some of the worst problems that blight our urban areas.

The key to these ideas is involvement at all levels; involvement of church members in the lives of those at risk of becoming caught up in gang culture, and involvement of the wider community in
taking control of the issues, rather than kicking them the way of the police or the Government in the belief that only outside agencies can sort them out.

There is another dimension to involving churches in urban areas; one of the key factors in lawlessness and gang culture is a lack of moral framework, direction or structure in the lives of those drawn in.

Churches can make a huge difference in these respects, both for those who choose to worship and for those who become involved in secular activities as part of a coalition of organisations. Churches have long been a source of strength and hope in deprived areas; this new report serves to underline what a crucial role they can play.