Desmond Crockwell, the creator of anti-violence magazine Visonz, has issued a rallying call to Bermuda’s sports and community clubs to take a more prominent role in ending gang violence.

Crockwell would also like to see more teachers, principals, counsellors and charity workers contribute to the discussion surrounding violent crime.

The campaigner was speaking after the third in a series of anti-violence forums, which was held at Crawl Gospel Church on Saturday evening.

The events have featured contributions from the families of murder victims, former prisoners, members of the church and leading government politicians.

Mr Crockwell told The Royal Gazette: “I would like to see more people attend from sports and community clubs, where a lot of this stuff has been taking place.

“We would really like to see football club presidents; they should be helping to head up the message, particularly during the season. Now is a vulnerable time for footballers and, while nothing has happened yet, we don’t want anything to happen.

“If we become conscious about promoting it, then people will catch on. We could have a forum at their facility and that lets people know the club is serious. It can change the whole perception of the environment.

“We would also like to see the presence of more school personnel, including counsellors, principals and teachers as well as charity workers who work with those at risk.

Mr Crockwell said that since Visionz was launched and the forums began in the summer, more “at-risk” men have contacted him.

“I have had people on the streets calling me; they have acknowledged the forums and what is going on. One day we went out and got direct feedback. People say that they want jobs, to stay occupied and keep themselves busy. I think the solution is known. We need to build up community centres, we need to get our education system on track, we need trade schools to give them an opportunity to do something they like.

“It is always about needing to keep money in their pocket.

“The other night at the forum we brought one man to come and work at the event for two hours. We gave him $100, which I couldn’t really afford, but he called me. He was the guy with tattoos and people might be quick to judge him, but he is the kindest guy. He was thanking me today telling me he’s not guaranteed to get any food.”