In November 2020, Counter Terrorism Policing launched a new public prevent campaign, called ACT Early (ActEarly.uk). A campaign designed with parents at the forefront. This new resource provides advice, guidance and support for anyone who is concerned that someone they know may be at risk from being radicalised.
The impact of Covid-19, social isolation and a rise in hateful extremism online is creating a ‘perfect storm’ which is making more young people vulnerable to radicalisation and other forms of grooming. Between 1 January 2019 and 30 June 2020, 17 children have been arrested in relation to terrorism offences. Some were as young as 14 years old, while nearly all will have been radicalised entirely online.
Family and friends are best placed to spot the worrying behaviour changes which can indicate that a loved one is heading down a path towards radicalisation, but currently just 2% of referrals into the Government’s Prevent programme come from that group.
Prevent is just that – a preventative programme, delivered locally by teachers, healthcare practitioners, social workers, the police, charities, and religious leaders. It places protection around people vulnerable to radicalisation, stopping them from being drawn into terrorism – regardless of the ideology.
You can find out more by visiting our safeguarding website actearly.uk where you can find signs of radicalisation, case studies, other partner organisations who can offer support and how to share concerns with the police. The website is supported by a national police Prevent advice line, where families and friends can seek help and support in confidence from specialist Counter Terrorism officers.
What you can do…
If you are worried that someone you know is being radicalised, visit www.actearly.uk You won’t be wasting our time and you won’t ruin lives, but you might save them. Alliteratively you can call the national Police Prevent Advice Line on 0800 011 3764, in confidence, and our specially trained Prevent officers will listen carefully to your concerns.
Your actions can save lives.
Action Counters Terrorism