The Prevent strategy is a core element of the UK Government’s counter-terrorism strategy known as CONTEST. Its primary aim is to safeguard individuals from becoming involved in terrorism or supporting extremist ideologies. Prevent works by identifying people who may be vulnerable to radicalisation and providing them with appropriate support at an early stage. The focus is not on criminalising individuals or communities but rather on safeguarding and prevention, helping people before they reach a point of crisis.
Prevent is not solely the responsibility of the police or security services. It is a multi-agency approach that involves education providers, health and social care professionals, local government, community groups, and members of the public. Everyone has a part to play in recognising the signs that someone may be at risk and taking the right steps to ensure they receive the help they need.
Understanding Radicalisation and Vulnerability
Radicalisation is the process by which a person comes to support terrorism and forms of extremism that may lead to terrorism. People can become vulnerable to radicalisation for a range of personal, emotional, and social reasons. It is not always obvious and can affect people of all ages, backgrounds, and beliefs.
There are some indicators that someone might be becoming radicalised. These may include:
- noticeable changes in behaviour or attitudes,
- withdrawal from usual activities or social circles,
- expressing extremist views or showing a fixation on a particular ideology,
- increased isolation.
These signs on their own may not necessarily mean someone is at risk, but if they appear together or seem out of character, it may be time to have a conversation or seek support. Prevent is here to offer that support in a confidential and caring way.
Further information on spotting the signs is available from ACT Early.
Channel: Voluntary and Supportive Help
Channel is a key part of Prevent. It’s a voluntary programme designed to support people who may be at risk of radicalisation. The process is confidential and focused on early help, not punishment or criminalisation.
Support plans are created to meet each person’s needs — whether that involves emotional wellbeing, education, relationships, or other support services. Channel is there to give people the space and tools to move forward safely.
Participation is always voluntary and requires consent. For those under 18, a parent or guardian would need to agree to be involved. The purpose is always to protect and support, never to stigmatise.
Support and Referrals for Professionals
If you work with children, young people, or adults in any setting — whether in education, care, health, housing, or community work — you play a vital role in safeguarding.
When you’re concerned about someone, follow your usual safeguarding process. If it feels appropriate, you can also complete a National Referral Form (NRF) to ensure the right support is explored. Referrals are carefully reviewed by trained teams to understand what help is needed.
Even if you’re unsure, seeking guidance early can be the most effective step. Speak to your safeguarding lead or contact someone trained in Prevent support for advice. Concerns are never dismissed — they’re taken seriously and responded to sensitively.
Support for the Public – What You Can Do
Family members, friends, neighbours, and colleagues often notice things others don’t. If you’re worried that someone you care about may be at risk of being influenced by harmful ideas, you don’t have to manage that alone.
You can visit ACT Early for advice, information, and support. There are stories from real people, guidance on how to start a conversation, and details on what to expect if you do raise a concern.
If you think someone is in immediate danger or planning to harm themselves or others, call 999 straight away. For less urgent situations, you can speak to the police via 101 or contact safeguarding teams who understand how to help.
Taking action early could change the course of someone’s life.
Staying Safe Online
The internet is a space where people connect, learn, and express themselves. But it’s also where harmful content can spread quickly — especially through social media and video platforms.
Extremist groups sometimes use these spaces to promote their messages or target vulnerable individuals. Young people in particular can come across this material, even if they’re not searching for it directly.
Talking openly about the risks of online content is one of the best ways to protect those you care for. Support critical thinking, explore digital safety together, and make use of privacy settings and parental controls. Being present, not restrictive, is often the most effective approach.
You can find useful resources on websites such as Thinkuknow, Internet Matters, and CEOP.
Reporting Extremist Material
If you see content online that promotes terrorism or extremism — whether it’s a video, post, or website — you can report it anonymously.
The Home Office has an online tool to help remove this type of harmful material. You don’t need to share your personal details unless you choose to. Everything reported is reviewed by trained specialists.
To make a report, visit gov.uk/report-terrorism.
Prevent Resources and Training
There are tools available to help you learn more about Prevent, how to spot signs of radicalisation, and how to respond safely.
Whether you’re a parent, teacher, volunteer, youth worker, or just concerned about someone close to you — knowing the basics helps. Everyone has the power to notice, to listen, and to act.
Notice, Check, Share
If something doesn’t seem right, remember this simple approach:
- Notice behaviours or changes that cause concern
- Check the concern with someone — a safeguarding lead, colleague, or Prevent contact
- Share the information through the appropriate referral process
This way, concerns can be handled responsibly and in a way that supports the person at the heart of it all.
Contact and Further Information
For further information about Prevent in your area or to speak to someone about a concern, you can contact your local Prevent Co-ordinator or the police Prevent team. They are there to provide advice, answer questions, and guide you through the referral process if necessary.
You may also find these links useful:
Together, we can work to build a stronger, safer community by recognising the signs of radicalisation, responding early, and supporting individuals who need our help.