Extremism and Radicalisation
Radicalisation is the process by which a person comes to support terrorism and extremist ideologies. If you are worried someone is becoming radicalised act early and seek help. The sooner you reach out, the quicker the person can be protected from being groomed and exploited by extremists.
Prevent
Prevent is part of the government’s counter-terrorism strategy (CONTEST) and aims to reduce the threat to the UK from terrorism by stopping people becoming terrorists or supporting terrorism. It works to ensure that people who are susceptible to radicalisation are offered appropriate interventions, and communities are protected against radicalising influences
Police forces across the country have specially trained Prevent officers who work with professionals in health, education, local authorities and charities, as well as faith and community groups to help vulnerable people move away from extremism. They are here to listen and offer help and advice. Receiving support is voluntary.
Professionals
The Prevent duty requires specified authorities such as education, health, local authorities, police and criminal justice agencies (prisons and probation) to help prevent the risk of people becoming terrorists or supporting terrorism. It sits alongside long-established safeguarding duties on professionals to protect people from a range of other harms, such as substance abuse, involvement in gangs, and physical and sexual exploitation. The duty helps to ensure that people who are susceptible to radicalisation are supported as they would be under safeguarding processes.
There is training available on the Prevent duty, which is provided by the government. This Training covers
- the Prevent duty
- different extremist ideologies that can lead to terrorism
- the risk around radicalisation and your supportive role
- making a Prevent referral that is both informed and made with good intention
- the interventions and support available
There is also training on Prevent provided via the Sheffield Adult Safeguarding Partnership Board (SASPB).
Prevent Duty Guidance
Prevent Guidance for Healthcare Professionals
Prevent Duty Training (Government)
Prevent Duty Training (SASPB)
Family and Friends
Friends and family are best placed to spot the signs, so trust your instincts and share your concerns in confidence.
National Counter Terrorism Policing have launched a website to help increase Prevent referrals from family and friends by increasing awareness, trust and understanding of the police’s safeguarding role by:
- Increasing awareness of where to go for further information and support
- Increasing awareness of the signs of radicalisation
- Increasing understanding of, and confidence in, the referral process
- Encouraging referrals from concerned family and friends at an early stage
- Highlighting the police safeguarding role in Prevent
To find out more visit ACT Early UK