PREVENT
The Government PREVENT Strategy aims to stop people supporting or being drawn into terrorism. It is about making sure that vulnerable adults and children who are susceptible to radicalisation receive support before they become involved in extremism or terrorist related activity and communities are protected against radicalising influences.
If someone is becoming radicalised it means they are displaying extreme views in support of extreme ideologies or beliefs, terrorist groups and activities.
Signs of radicalisation
Radicalisation can happen both in person and online. There is no checklist that can tell us if someone is being radicalised or becoming involved in terrorism, however you may notice changes in a person’s behaviour, appearance or speech. They may express extremist views or show sympathy with extremist causes and may isolate themselves from family and friends.
The process of radicalisation is different for every person and can take place over an extended period or within a very short time frame. Anyone can become vulnerable to radicalisation. There is no single profile of what an extremist might look like or what it is that might cause someone to become radicalised.
Referrals and Reporting
If you have a concern about someone being radicalised, please complete the below referral form. This will enable information to be shared with Merseyside Police Prevent Team as well and Children’s and Adult Social Care, to start the safeguarding process.
You can also call the Merseyside Police Prevent Team on 0151 777 4878 for advice.
If you believe your situation is an emergency, call 999.
Support provided is done through the Channel panel. Channel panels are a multi-agency meeting chaired monthly where vulnerable adults and children referrals can be discussed and appropriate intervention put in place to support them from being drawn into terrorist activity.
Further advice, guidance and support
- Preventing violent extremism – Knowsley
- Get help for radicalisation concerns – GOV.UK
- Report online material promoting terrorism or extremism – GOV.UK
- ACT Early | Prevent radicalisation
Call the ACT Early Support Line 0800 011 3764 in confidence.
The advice line is open 9:00am – 5:00pm every day.