A street pastor is an Interdenominational Church answer to urban problems, engaging with people on the street to care, listen and dialogue. The aim is to target those at risk of gang membership, drugs, guns and violence. In effect, street pasturing is highly visible and more physical form of social work. Its emphasis is on preventing crime by building bridges
between the offender and the community from which they have become alienated.The initiative is based on five core values: 1) The sacredness and sanctity of human life; 2) Valuing and honouring the community; 3) Being a person of integrity; 4) Taking personal responsibility; 5) The growth and development of the individual to their fullest potential.
Left: Class A dealer: “So what do you want me to do? Work on a government run programme for £100, when I can make £500 a day?”; Middle: Last meeting before the start of a two-week clampdown on cannabis users in Brixton area. Right: Pastors’ primary aim is not about preaching heaven and hell, but to listen and help, as they are doing here to Selene.