Preventing radicalisation
Preventing radicalisation
We understand children are vulnerable to extremist ideology and radicalisation. Similar to our role in protecting children from other forms of harms and abuse, we will also protect children from this risk as part of our safeguarding approach.
- Extremism is the vocal or active opposition to our fundamental British values, including democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty and the mutual respect and tolerance of different faiths and beliefs. This also includes calling for the death of members of the armed forces.
- Radicalisation refers to the process by which a person comes to support terrorism and extremist ideologies associated with terrorist groups.
- Terrorism is an action that endangers or causes serious violence to a person/people; causes serious damage to property; or seriously interferes or disrupts an electronic system. The use or threat must be designed to influence the government or to intimidate the public and is made for the purpose of advancing a political, religious or ideological cause.
We accept that there is no single way of identifying whether a child is likely to be susceptible to an extremist ideology. Background factors combined with specific influences, such as family and friends may contribute to a child’s vulnerability. Similarly, radicalisation can occur through many different methods (such as social media or the internet) and settings (such as within the home).
We understand it is, where possible, our role to protect vulnerable people from extremist ideology and intervene to prevent those at risk of radicalisation being radicalised. As with other safeguarding risks, through appropriate training staff will be alert to changes in children’s behaviour, which could indicate that they may be in need of help or protection. Staff will use their judgement in identifying children who might be at risk of radicalisation and act proportionately which must include reporting their concerns to the DSL (or deputy) who will consider making a Prevent referral.