Radicalisation, Extremism & Prevent

Understanding Radicalisation, Extremism, Safeguarding and Public Protection Radicalisation is a safeguarding concern that can affect children, young people and adults from any background, community, religion, ethnicity, gender or social group. Protecting people from exploitation, coercion, harmful influence and involvement in criminal or extremist activity is an important part of safeguarding, public protection and community safety. This guide provides information about radicalisation, extremism, the Prevent Programme, online risks, safeguarding responsibilities, reporting concerns and support services available across the UK. This information is intended for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice.

Understanding Radicalisation

What is Radicalisation?

Radicalisation is the process by which a person may become increasingly influenced by extremist ideologies, beliefs or individuals.

Radicalisation can occur:

• Online.
• Through social networks.
• Within communities.
• Through personal relationships.
• Through exposure to extremist material.

Radicalisation itself is not a crime, but it may increase vulnerability to criminal activity, exploitation or involvement in extremist causes.

What is Extremism?

Understanding Extremism

The UK Government defines extremism as the promotion or advancement of ideologies based on violence, hatred or intolerance that seek to undermine the rights and freedoms of others or democratic values.

Extremism can be associated with different ideologies and causes.

It is important to avoid assumptions or stereotypes.

People from all communities can be vulnerable to extremist influence.

Government Information

Prevent Duty Guidance

The Prevent Programme

What is Prevent?

Prevent is part of the UK's wider counter-terrorism strategy known as CONTEST.

Prevent aims to:

• Safeguard individuals.
• Reduce vulnerability to radicalisation.
• Provide support where concerns exist.
• Protect communities.
• Prevent people being drawn into terrorism.

Prevent is intended to operate as a safeguarding programme rather than a criminal justice process.

Official Prevent Information

Prevent Programme Information

How Prevent Works

Early Support and Intervention

Where concerns are identified:

• Information may be assessed.
• Safeguarding needs considered.
• Support options explored.
• Appropriate agencies involved.

The purpose is to provide support before risks escalate.

Not every referral results in further action.

Each case should be assessed individually and proportionately.

Channel Programme

Voluntary Support Programme

Channel is a multi-agency safeguarding programme that may support individuals vulnerable to radicalisation.

Support may include:

• Education.
• Mentoring.
• Mental health support.
• Community support.
• Family support.

Participation is generally voluntary.

Channel Guidance

Channel Duty Guidance

Online Radicalisation

Digital Risks

The internet can be used to spread extremist content.

Risks may arise through:

• Social media.
• Online forums.
• Messaging platforms.
• Video-sharing sites.
• Gaming platforms.

Online grooming techniques may be used to influence vulnerable individuals.

National Cyber Security Centre

National Cyber Security Centre

Extremist Grooming

Manipulation and Influence

Extremist groups may use techniques similar to other forms of grooming.

These may include:

• Building trust.
• Exploiting vulnerabilities.
• Creating isolation.
• Encouraging secrecy.
• Promoting "us versus them" narratives.
• Offering belonging or identity.

Individuals may not realise they are being influenced.

Extremism Awareness

Potential Warning Signs

Warning signs may vary and should always be considered carefully and within context.

Possible indicators may include:

• Sudden behavioural changes.
• Increased isolation.
• Fixation on extremist material.
• Rejection of family or social networks.
• Expressions of hatred towards groups.
• Justification of violence.
• Obsession with conspiracy theories linked to extremist beliefs.

One sign alone does not mean someone is being radicalised.

Professional assessment should consider the whole situation.

Protecting Children & Young People

Safeguarding Responsibilities

Children and young people may be particularly vulnerable to manipulation and grooming.

Schools, families and professionals should encourage:

• Critical thinking.
• Online safety.
• Open communication.
• Emotional wellbeing.
• Positive community engagement.

NSPCC

NSPCC

Childline

Childline

Telephone:

0800 1111

Online Safety for Parents

Supporting Children Online

Parents and carers can help by:

• Discussing online activity.
• Encouraging safe internet use.
• Talking about misinformation.
• Monitoring age-appropriate content.
• Encouraging questions and discussion.

Internet Matters

Internet Matters

NSPCC Online Safety

NSPCC Online Safety Advice

Schools, Colleges & Universities

Educational Responsibilities

Education providers have safeguarding responsibilities that may include preventing vulnerability to radicalisation.

Approaches should focus on:

• Safeguarding.
• Inclusion.
• Equality.
• Critical thinking.
• Respectful discussion.

Department for Education

Department for Education

Vulnerable Adults & Radicalisation

Adult Safeguarding

Adults may be vulnerable due to:

• Social isolation.
• Mental health difficulties.
• Learning disabilities.
• Substance misuse.
• Personal crises.

Safeguarding approaches should remain person-centred and proportionate.

Ann Craft Trust

Ann Craft Trust

Mental Health & Radicalisation

Understanding Complexity

Mental health difficulties do not automatically lead to radicalisation.

However, vulnerability, trauma, isolation or crises may sometimes increase susceptibility to harmful influence.

Support should focus on:

• Mental health care.
• Safeguarding.
• Recovery.
• Community support.

NHS Mental Health

NHS Mental Health Services

Community Cohesion & Inclusion

Strong Communities

Positive community relationships can help reduce vulnerability to harmful influences.

Community cohesion promotes:

• Respect.
• Inclusion.
• Equality.
• Understanding.
• Participation.

Strong communities help build resilience against extremism.

Freedom of Speech & the Law

Understanding Rights and Responsibilities

The UK protects:

• Freedom of expression.
• Freedom of religion.
• Freedom of belief.
• Peaceful protest.

However, rights may be limited where necessary to:

• Protect public safety.
• Prevent crime.
• Prevent incitement to violence.
• Protect the rights of others.

Safeguarding concerns should be distinguished from lawful political, religious or personal beliefs.

Equality and Human Rights Commission

Equality and Human Rights Commission

Reporting Concerns

If You Are Worried About Someone

Concerns can be raised through:

• Schools.
• Colleges.
• Universities.
• Employers.
• Social services.
• Safeguarding teams.
• Police.

You do not need proof to seek advice about a safeguarding concern.

ACT Early

ACT Early Support Service

Telephone:

0800 011 3764

Counter Terrorism Reporting

Reporting Immediate Concerns

Anti-Terrorist Hotline

0800 789 321

Counter Terrorism Policing

Counter Terrorism Policing UK

GOV.UK Reporting Information

Report Terrorism and Extremism Concerns

Additional Radicalisation, Prevent & Counter-Extremism Topics

These sections expand the Radicalisation & Prevent Hub and provide further information about safeguarding, vulnerability, public protection, community safety, human rights and counter-terrorism.

Radicalisation and Mental Health

Understanding Vulnerability

Mental health difficulties do not cause extremism or terrorism.

However, some individuals experiencing:

• Isolation.
• Trauma.
• Anxiety.
• Depression.
• Identity struggles.
• Social exclusion.

may become more vulnerable to manipulation by extremist groups.

Support should focus on:

• Mental health care.
• Safeguarding.
• Community support.
• Early intervention.

NHS Mental Health Services

https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health

Mind

https://www.mind.org.uk

Radicalisation and Autism / Learning Disabilities

Understanding Additional Vulnerabilities

People with autism, learning disabilities or communication difficulties may sometimes be more vulnerable to:

• Online grooming.
• Manipulation.
• Exploitation.
• Extremist recruitment.

This does not mean autistic people or people with learning disabilities are more likely to become extremists.

Support should focus on:

• Clear communication.
• Safeguarding.
• Education.
• Inclusion.
• Individual needs.

National Autistic Society

https://www.autism.org.uk

Mencap

https://www.mencap.org.uk

Online Extremist Content

Digital Risks

Extremist material may appear through:

• Social media.
• Video platforms.
• Forums.
• Messaging applications.
• Gaming platforms.

Content may include:

• Propaganda.
• Misinformation.
• Hate material.
• Recruitment efforts.

Counter Terrorism Internet Referral Unit

https://www.gov.uk/report-terrorism

Conspiracy Theories and Vulnerability

Understanding Misinformation

Some conspiracy theories may contribute to:

• Distrust.
• Isolation.
• Polarisation.
• Exposure to extremist narratives.

Critical thinking, media literacy and reliable information sources can help reduce risks.

Full Fact

https://fullfact.org

Youth Radicalisation

Safeguarding Children and Young People

Young people may be vulnerable due to:

• Peer influence.
• Online activity.
• Identity issues.
• Social pressures.
• Emotional difficulties.

Protective factors include:

• Positive relationships.
• Education.
• Community engagement.
• Safe online behaviour.

NSPCC

https://www.nspcc.org.uk

Childline

https://www.childline.org.uk

Adult Radicalisation

Protecting Adults

Adults can also become vulnerable during periods of:

• Crisis.
• Bereavement.
• Isolation.
• Financial hardship.
• Social exclusion.

Adult safeguarding principles may apply where vulnerability is identified.

Ann Craft Trust

https://www.anncrafttrust.org

Prison Radicalisation

Managing Risks in Custody

Prisons may face challenges relating to:

• Extremist influence.
• Recruitment.
• Radicalisation.

Prison services work with partner agencies to manage risks while respecting legal rights.

HM Prison and Probation Service

https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/hm-prison-and-probation-service

Returning Foreign Fighters

Public Protection Considerations

Individuals returning from overseas conflict zones may require:

• Risk assessment.
• Investigation.
• Safeguarding consideration.
• Rehabilitation measures where appropriate.

Cases are assessed individually according to evidence and legal requirements.

Counter Terrorism Policing

https://www.counterterrorism.police.uk

Community Tensions and Public Safety

Building Safe Communities

Periods of tension may arise following:

• Major incidents.
• International events.
• Hate incidents.
• Extremist activity.

Community engagement and dialogue can help reduce division and improve safety.

Community Security Trust

https://cst.org.uk

Hate Crime and Extremism

Understanding the Difference

Not all hate crime involves extremism and not all extremism involves hate crime.

However, there may be overlap where hostility or prejudice targets people because of:

• Race.
• Religion.
• Disability.
• Sexual orientation.
• Gender identity.

Stop Hate UK

https://www.stophateuk.org

Faith Communities and Safeguarding

Protecting Places of Worship

Faith communities have important safeguarding responsibilities.

This may include:

• Protecting children.
• Protecting vulnerable adults.
• Addressing safeguarding concerns.
• Supporting community cohesion.

Thirtyone:Eight Safeguarding

https://thirtyoneeight.org

Workplace Prevent Responsibilities

Employers and Safeguarding

Some organisations may have safeguarding responsibilities relating to vulnerability to radicalisation.

Employers should:

• Promote safe reporting.
• Support wellbeing.
• Provide appropriate training where required.

Government Prevent Guidance

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/prevent-duty-guidance

Prevent in Healthcare

NHS Safeguarding Responsibilities

Healthcare professionals may identify safeguarding concerns relating to vulnerability to radicalisation.

Approaches should remain:

• Person-centred.
• Proportionate.
• Evidence-based.

NHS England Prevent

https://www.england.nhs.uk

Prevent in Education

Schools, Colleges and Universities

Education providers play an important safeguarding role.

Responsibilities may include:

• Promoting critical thinking.
• Supporting wellbeing.
• Identifying vulnerabilities.
• Protecting students.

Department for Education

https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/department-for-education

Prevent in Social Care

Adult and Child Safeguarding

Social care professionals may encounter individuals vulnerable to:

• Grooming.
• Manipulation.
• Exploitation.

Safeguarding duties should always be considered.

Social Care Institute for Excellence

https://www.scie.org.uk

Multi-Agency Safeguarding Partnerships

Working Together

Effective safeguarding often requires cooperation between:

• Police.
• Social Services.
• Healthcare.
• Education.
• Housing.
• Community organisations.

Working Together to Safeguard Children

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/working-together-to-safeguard-children

Counter-Terrorism Investigations

Investigating Serious Threats

Counter-terrorism investigations may involve:

• Intelligence gathering.
• Criminal investigations.
• Safeguarding activity.
• Risk management.

Investigations should be conducted lawfully and proportionately.

Counter Terrorism Policing

https://www.counterterrorism.police.uk

Terrorism Offences and Legal Processes

Criminal Justice Procedures

Terrorism-related offences may involve:

• Investigation.
• Arrest.
• Charging decisions.
• Court proceedings.
• Appeals.

Individuals retain legal rights including:

• Legal representation.
• Fair trial rights.
• Access to justice.

Crown Prosecution Service

https://www.cps.gov.uk

Courts and Tribunals

https://www.gov.uk/courts-tribunals

Victim Support Following Terrorist Incidents

Support for Victims and Families

People affected by terrorist incidents may require:

• Emotional support.
• Trauma support.
• Financial assistance.
• Practical help.

Victim Support

https://www.victimsupport.org.uk

GOV.UK Victims of Terrorism Support

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/support-for-victims-of-terrorism

Community Resilience and Prevention

Building Strong Communities

Community resilience may be strengthened through:

• Education.
• Inclusion.
• Safeguarding.
• Positive relationships.
• Community engagement.

Strong communities are often more resistant to harmful influences.

ACT Early

https://actearly.uk

International Extremism and Online Influence

Global Challenges

Extremist narratives may spread across borders through:

• Social media.
• Online platforms.
• International networks.

International cooperation helps address threats while protecting rights and freedoms.

Europol

https://www.europol.europa.eu

Interpol

https://www.interpol.int

Human Rights, Civil Liberties and Counter-Terrorism

Balancing Rights and Public Safety

Counter-terrorism measures should balance:

• Public safety.
• Human rights.
• Equality.
• Freedom of expression.
• Freedom of religion.
• Privacy rights.
• Access to justice.

Public authorities should act:

• Lawfully.
• Necessarily.
• Proportionately.
• Without discrimination.

Equality and Human Rights Commission

https://www.equalityhumanrights.com

Human Rights Act 1998

https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1998/42/contents

Relevant Legislation

Key legislation may include:

• Counter-Terrorism and Security Act 2015
• Terrorism Act 2000
• Terrorism Act 2006
• Human Rights Act 1998
• Equality Act 2010
• Children Act 1989
• Children Act 2004
• Care Act 2014
• Data Protection Act 2018

Terrorism Act 2000

https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2000/11/contents

Terrorism Act 2006

https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2006/11/contents

Human Rights & Legal Protections

Everyone has the right to:

• Freedom of thought.
• Freedom of religion.
• Freedom of expression.
• Protection from discrimination.
• Fair treatment.
• Privacy.
• Access to support services.

Public authorities should act lawfully, proportionately and fairly.

Relevant legislation and guidance may include:

• Human Rights Act 1998.
• Equality Act 2010.
• Counter-Terrorism and Security Act 2015.
• Children Act 1989.
• Children Act 2004.
• Care Act 2014.
• Data Protection Act 2018.

Human Rights Act

Human Rights Act 1998

Counter-Terrorism and Security Act 2015

Counter-Terrorism and Security Act 2015

Key Message

Preventing radicalisation and protecting communities requires a balanced approach that combines safeguarding, education, mental health support, community engagement, public protection and respect for human rights. Effective prevention focuses on early support, reducing vulnerability, protecting individuals from exploitation and maintaining safe, inclusive communities while respecting lawful freedoms and civil liberties.