Leona Lewis has called on the government to invest more money in community and kids' groups - to stop them turning to gangs.

Speaking to The Sun, the X Factor winner gave her thoughts on how young people should be given more things to do in an effort to keep them away from life on the street.

She also said that she has had cousins who have been engulfed in gangs. She said:

"Everything boils down to money - there is not enough money for education or community groups. A lot of important groups are being shut down."

She added: "Cousins of mine were in gangs and it just tears families apart. It's hard to come out of once you are in it. I have seen it from the outside, I haven't been in it."