Preventing Extremism

What is Extremism?

Extremism is vocal or active opposition to fundamental British values, including democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty and mutual respect and tolerance of different faiths and beliefs.

We also include in our definition of extremism calls for the death of members of our armed forces, whether in this country or overseas (HM Government Prevent Strategy 2011). Violent extremism is a real threat to all communities - violent extremists actively aim to damage community relations and create division. That is why it is vital that we all work together to support those who are vulnerable in this way.

What is Radicalisation?

Radicalisation is defined as the process by which people come to support terrorism and extremism and, in some cases, to then participate in terrorist groups.

There is no obvious profile of a person likely to become involved in extremism or a single indicator of when a person might move to adopt violence in support of extremist ideas. The process of radicalisation is different for every individual and can take place over an extended period or within a very short time frame.

Warning Signs

Radicalisation can occur quickly, or over a long period. Sometimes there are clear warning signs. Teenage years are a time of great change and young people are often solitary, quick to anger and distrustful of authority. The behaviors described here are intended to help you identify possible radicalisation:

- Argumentative and unwilling to listen to other people’s points of view

- Changes in friendship groups and appearance

- Change their online identity, including their social media name or profile image

- More explicit signs include expressions of sympathy for extremist ideologies and groups

Run - Hide - Tell

In the rare event of a firearms or weapons attack, the following can be applied:

RUN to a place of safety. This is a far better option than to surrender or negotiate. If there’s nowhere to go, then…

HIDE It’s better to hide than to confront. Remember to turn your phone to silent and turn off vibrate. Barricade yourself in if you can.

Then finally and only when it is safe to do so… TELL the police by calling 999.

Advice and Signposting

Who Can Help Me?

Gov.uk (Prevent):

If you suspect someone is involved in terrorism in any way:

call the police: 999 or 101

report suspicious activity to MI5

report online terrorist material

You can remain anonymous.