Safeguarding website launched to stop radicalisation

Counter Terrorism Police (CTP) say that 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.

Parents, friends and families can now get specialist support to stop their loved ones being drawn into harmful activities or groups, with the launch of the new website, ACT Early.

The site provides advice, guidance and support for anyone who is concerned that someone they know may be at risk from being radicalised by terrorists or extremist content 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 terrorism, but currently just two per cent of referrals into the Government’s anti-radicalisation programme Prevent come from that group of people.

South Yorkshire Police assistant chief constable Lauren Poultney said: “Radicalisation is a process where someone comes to support and believe extremist ideologies. If you’re worried about someone, please tell us so we can help.

"The sooner you reach out, the sooner we can act and help to protect the person you care about.

"We have specially trained officers in force, who work on Prevent, which helps people who may be vulnerable to radicalisation to move away from those ideologies.

"Friends and family are best placed to spot warning signs and you can tell us in confidence what you’re worried about. We can help if you act early.

"You won’t be wasting our time, and you won’t be ruining lives, but you may save them.”

Visit Actearly.uk, if you are worried that someone you know is being radicalised. 

You can also call the national police Prevent advice line on 0800 011 3764 in confidence, and their specically trained Prevent officers will listen to your concerns.