Sefton Support Group
Make A Donation
Sefton Support Group

PREVENT Policy

Introduction

It may seem extreme to develop a policy to counteract terrorism within the voluntary sector; however, many people who have experienced terrorist activity have thought the same.

The aim of PREVENT is to stop people from becoming terrorists or supporting terrorism.

The Government’s counter-terrorism strategy is known as CONTEST. PREVENT is part of CONTEST and aims to stop people from becoming terrorists or supporting terrorism. The strategy promotes collaboration and co-operation among public service organisations. The Office for Security and Counter Terrorism in the Home Office provides strategic direction and governance on CONTEST. The full strategy can be read at www.homeoffice.gov.uk.

CONTEST Strategy

CONTEST is based on four key principles:

  • Pursue: To stop terrorist attacks.
  • Prevent: To stop people from becoming terrorists or supporting terrorism.
  • Protect: To strengthen our protection against a terrorist attack.
  • Prepare: To mitigate the impact of a terrorist attack.

National Objectives of PREVENT

  • Objective 1: Respond to the ideological challenge of terrorism and the threat from those who promote it.
  • Objective 2: Prevent people from being drawn into terrorism and ensure they receive appropriate advice and support.
  • Objective 3: Work with sectors and institutions where there are risks of radicalisation that need to be addressed.

Information Technology

All data is stored securely on a desktop computer. No laptops are used in the charity due to the risk of being mislaid or stolen. However, clients may use the Wi-Fi to access the internet via tablets or iPads. Access to Wi-Fi is password protected.

Building Partnerships, Staying Safe

The following steps help determine appropriate action if concerns arise.

Practical Steps for Sefton Support Group Volunteers

In your role, you may notice unusual changes in the behaviour of clients or colleagues that cause concern. If so, it is important to know how to raise these concerns and what will happen next.

  • Attend PREVENT training and awareness programmes provided by our organisation.
  • Be aware of your professional responsibilities, particularly in relation to safeguarding vulnerable adults (See Safeguarding Policy).
  • Understand organisational protocols, policies, and procedures.
  • Know which Trustee or management team member to contact about concerns.
  • Be aware of the available support when raising a concern.
  • Follow the confidentiality policy as required.

Radicalisation, Recruitment, and PREVENT

All terrorist groups need to radicalise and recruit people. How, where, and to what extent they attempt this varies. Some groups are elitist and do not seek widespread recruitment, while others aim to grow into mass movements and transition from terrorists to insurgents, using armed conflict to overthrow recognised governments.

Factors That May Make People Vulnerable to Exploitation

Several factors may contribute to an individual’s vulnerability and risk of being exploited by radicalisers:

  • Identity Crisis: Adolescents and vulnerable adults exploring identity may feel distant from family and cultural heritage. Radicalisers may exploit this sense of isolation, leading to changes in behaviour, social circles, and interactions.
  • Personal Crisis: Family tensions, isolation, or life struggles may make individuals more susceptible to extremist influences.
  • Personal Circumstances: Experiences such as migration, local tensions, or events affecting families in countries of origin may create feelings of alienation from UK values, leading to harmful actions.
  • Unemployment or Underemployment: Limited achievements or career prospects may lead individuals to reject civic life, adopting violence as a symbolic act.
  • Criminality: Some individuals may have been involved in criminal activity or groups linked to organised crime, making them vulnerable to terrorist-related activities.

Money Laundering

Money laundering is the process by which criminals disguise the original ownership and control of criminal proceeds to make them appear legitimate. Suspicion of such activity arises when an individual knows, suspects, or has reasonable grounds to believe that the property involved represents the proceeds of crime.

Signs of Radicalisation

Any changes in an individual’s behaviour should not be viewed in isolation. It is important to assess their reliability and significance. Warning signs may include:

  • Family reports of unusual changes in behaviour, friendships, or requests for assistance.
  • Patients or staff accessing extremist material online.
  • Use of extremist or hate terms to exclude others or incite violence.
  • Writing or artwork promoting violent extremist messages or imagery.

Raising Concerns

If you notice any signs of radicalisation or concerns about an individual, you should:

  • Use your judgment to determine the significance of any behavioural changes.
  • Raise your concerns with any member of the Committee or a Trustee.

This is the PREVENT Policy of Sefton Support Group.