Street Pastors Programme Launches in Manchester

On the evening of Saturday 3rd July, Pastors will take to some of the toughest streets in Manchester to help rebuild communities and reduce crime. The team will consist of fourteen Pastors, who will wear distinctive blue jackets and baseball caps. The team comes from varied backgrounds, and members range from business managers to chefs. They will attempt to play a vital role in making a connection between the young and disenfranchised.

The event was brought to fruition by Pastor Les Isaac from the Ascension Trust with the support of the Greater Manchester Police. The scheme also has received funding from various organisations including the local Council.

'Street Pastors' will take to the streets at the weekends from 10pm til 4am, and have been trained in conflict resolution, counselling, drug awareness and historical development.

Revd Isaac said, "This is what I call the urban trinity. We have to work with the local authorities and with the police. We're in this for the long haul. Street Pastors bring hope, hope that life can be different, hope for education and training, hope for employment. The most important thing is to address self-esteem. There has always got to be hope."

This scheme in Manchester follows the path of similar schemes set up in London and Birmingham. 'Street Pastors' have been operating in London for more than a year now, and in one area of the capital they have reported a drop in crime rates of 30 percent.


Greater Manchester Police Chief Superintendant, Neil Wain said, "Street Pastors can, I believe, make a substantial and useful contribution to the policing of crime and gangs in some of our more deprived communities. Such assistance and outreach to those caught up in that lifestyle has been effective in other areas in bringing informal social control and potentially offering a route out to those who want to stop participating."

Candace James, a single mum, says, "I live on what many people would describe as a dangerous estate. I've had first hand experience of the fear gangs instil into communities. Yes, I am aware of the dangers and I don't relish being out on the streets late at night, but the opportunity to reach the marginalised in our society with the love of God makes the risks worthwhile. I believe every gang member that I've met has within them a heart of gold. I want to build relationships of trust with them and show them love and respect."