Prevent

Prevent is part of the Government’s counter terrorism strategy. It addresses all forms of dangerous extremism including Islamist extremism and far right extremism.

Prevent aims to:

• respond to the ideological challenge of terrorism and the threat we face from those who promote it
• prevent people from being drawn into terrorism and to ensure they are given appropriate advice and support
• work with sectors and institutions where there are risks of radicalisation that we need to address

There are specific statutory obligations under Prevent for local authorities, schools, higher and further education, health services, prisons, probation and the police. National guidance is available for each of the key organisations describing ways in which they can comply with the duty, as well as providing advice and information on how compliance with the duty will be monitored. A multi-agency Prevent Partnership Board has been established to co-ordinate this work in Devon.

Spotting the signs

Signs that someone is being radicalised could include:

• Becoming more secretive, especially around internet use
• Spending increasing amounts of time communicating with friends met online
• Becoming isolated from family and friends
• Developing a fixation on a particular subject
• Expressing intolerance or hatred of other people and communities
• Changing appearance to reflect association with a group or cause
• Expressing thoughts about harming or using violence towards others

What to do if you have concerns

If you are concerned that someone is being radicalised, find advice and support on the ACT Early website or contact the national Prevent advice line in confidence on 0800 011 3764.

Anyone can make a Prevent referral if they have concerns about someone. When a referral is made, the information you share will be considered by the Police Prevent Team. If appropriate, the person will be referred on for support through the Devon Channel process.

To make a Prevent referral please use this link for the Devon & Cornwall Police website.

Prevent Training Resources

This e-learning, developed by HM Government, is an introduction into the risks of radicalisation and the role that professionals and practitioners can play in supporting those at risk.

Home Office Prevent E-learning

For more information about Prevent in Devon please read the Safer Devon Webpage: Radicalisation - Safer Devon