A FORMER gang member is hoping to introduce “alternative education” to steer vulnerable youngsters away from a life of crime.

Gavin McKenna, 27, now runs runs Reach Every Generation - an organisation set up to deter children and teenagers from the gang lifestyle.

He uses his first-hand experience of drug dealing, stabbings and shootings to educate pupils, teachers and even police officers in Basildon. He works in partnership with Essex Police and Basildon Council.

Now he hopes to set up a 12-week scheme to give children a different outlook on life.

He said: “We are looking to put together a complimentary education targeting Basildon and Brentwood first of all and we hope to get the funding for it this year.

“We want to put together workshops for children on how to learn plastering and fitting kitchens and organising practical sessions and group work.

“We want to identify who is vulnerable and might join a gang and teach them a new skill to get an apprenticeship.”

Although the initiative is still in its early stages, he hopes to win the support of the council and police.

Chief Insp Sam Smith said that a scheme would be welcomed in Basildon.

She said: “I think it is a brilliant idea and something that we would really welcome.

“We want to make sure that we protect our vulnerable people as much as possible.

“The more than we can engage with the children and identify them as being vulnerable and prevent from going off track then the better it is for the people of Basildon.”

It comes after a group of up to six teenagers robbed two people in an underpass in Luncies Road last weekend.

Anyone with information about the robberies can call Essex Police on 101, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.