The Prevent duty is the duty in the Counter-Terrorism and Security Act 2015.The aim of Prevent is to reduce the threat to the UK from terrorism by stopping people becoming terrorists or supporting terrorism.

Prevent addresses all forms of extremism, including Right Wing and Extreme Right Wing activity, or conspiracy theories that subject to Counter Terrorism Police advice, could manifest as extremist action, animal rights extremism and religious extremism.

In order for us to fulfil the Prevent duty, it is essential that staff are able to identify children who may be vulnerable to radicalisation and know what to do when they are identified.

Protecting children from the risk of radicalisation is part of our wider safeguarding duties, and is similar in nature to protecting children from other harms (e.g. neglect, sexual exploitation), whether these come from within their family or are the product of outside influences.

We can also build children’s resilience to radicalisation by promoting fundamental British values and enabling them to challenge extremist views - 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.

General safeguarding principles apply to keeping children safe from the risk of radicalisation as set out in the relevant statutory guidance, ‘Working together to safeguard children’.

As with managing other safeguarding risks, we need to be alert to changes in children’s behaviour which could indicate that they may be in need of help or protection.

Signs that may indicate a child is being radicalised:

Isolating themselves from family and friends.

Talking as if from a scripted speech

Unwillingness or inability to discuss their views.

A sudden disrespectful attitude towards others.

Increased levels of anger.

Increased secretiveness- especially around internet use.

Children who are at risk of radicalisation may have low self-esteem, or be victims of bullying or discrimination. Extremists might target them and tell them they can be part of something special, later brainwashing them into cutting themselves off from their family and friends.

Any child who is considered vulnerable to radicalisation and there are evidence based concerns indicate they may be being groomed or radicalised will be referred directly to the DSL who will make appropriate referrals to the local authority, and complete a National Referral form.

If the information indicates that there is a level of risk, a “channel panel” will be convened and the nursery will be invited to attend and support this process.

For further advice, contact the Prevent Gateway Team on 01865 555618

In an emergency the police must be contacted on 999.

Effective engagement with parents / the family is also important as they are in a key position to spot signs of radicalisation. It is important to assist and advise families who raise concerns and be able to point them to the right support mechanisms.