What is radicalisation and Prevent?

Radicalisation can happen when a person develops extreme views or beliefs that support terrorist groups or activities.

Terrorism and extremism are sometimes used interchangeably. Both pose a threat to students, but they have very distinct definitions. In the UK we define terrorism as a violent action that:

The Counter Extremism Strategy 2015 states “Extremism is the vocal or active opposition to our fundamental values, including democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, and respect and tolerance for different faiths and beliefs. We also regard calls for the death of members of our armed forces as extremist.”

It’s important to remember that not all extremist groups will commit terrorist or violent acts. However, some groups pose particular threats, both online and offline. People can commit a terrorist offence even if they have not carried out a terrorist attack. Downloading terrorist materials from the internet or joining a terrorist group could be a terrorist offence.

Spot the signs of radicalisation

Radicalisation can happen both in person and online. There is no exhaustive list of behaviours that may indicate an individual is at risk of being radicalised or becoming involved in terrorism. The following signs may indicate someone is at risk:

Prevent is part of the Government's counter-terrorism strategy, which is focused on providing practical help to stop people from being drawn into terrorism. People who are identified as being at risk of radicalisation are offered support though the 'Channel' process, which is designed to assess the degree of vulnerability and risk and offer appropriate support. All Universities have a statutory duty to have due regard to the need to prevent people from being drawn into terrorism. This is called the Prevent Duty.

The Prevent process
 
At City St George's, if an individual has a concern that a student or member of staff is at risk of radicalisation they should make a report through Report + Support, which will be reviewed by the the the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL). The report will then be shared with the appropriate Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO) if appropriate. If there is a view that there is sufficient cause for concern, advice will be sought from external agencies, and where there is a view that there is a material risk to the student or the staff member, they will be referred to the City St George's Channel Referral Panel, and be informed about the referral, and the reasons for this.   

If the panel decides that a person is at risk, they’ll be invited to join a support programme called Channel, which is voluntary. If a person chooses not to take part in the programme, they may be offered other support instead and any risk will be managed by the police. The support provided by the Channel programme may include: