What is Radicalisation?
Radicalisation is the process through which a person comes to support or be involved in extremist ideologies going against fundamental British Values such as the rule of law, mutual respect, and tolerance of different faiths and beliefs. It can result in a person becoming drawn into terrorism and is in itself a form of harm.
Who is most vulnerable to radicalisation?
Young people and adult learners who are vulnerable to grooming for sexual exploitation, criminal exploitation or county lines, may also be vulnerable to radicalisation. Factors could include things like being a victim or witness of crime, abuse or bullying, or having personal or emotional difficulties.
Radicalisation as a four stage process
- Pre-radical. The person joins or identifies with a group or organisation.
- Self-identify. The person believes and accepts the beliefs and views held by the group or organisation.
- Indoctrination. When the person fully accepts the ideas, opinions, and beliefs of a particular group and to not consider other ideas, opinions, and beliefs.
- Terrorism. Planning, assisting and even collecting information on how to commit terrorist acts – all crimes under British terrorism legislation.
How do you recognise radicalisation?
Signs aren’t always obvious, but indicators that a young person is being radicalised may include:
- Change of behaviour
- Withdrawal from family and friends or changing circle of friends.
- Hostility towards others.
- Talking as if from a script.
- Being unwilling to discuss their views.
- Increased levels of anger.
- Changing who they socialise with
- Accessing extremist material online
What are the different types of extremism and radicalisation?
Extremism and radicalisation can happen in many different ways and it is important that we define and understand the different types of extremism and radicalisation.
- Domestic Extremism: Violent, criminal acts committed by individuals and/or groups to further ideological goals stemming from domestic influences, such as those of a political, religious, social, racial, or environmental nature.
- Violent Extremism: is when a person or group uses fear, terror or violence to try and achieve change.
- Radicalisation. when an individual or group adopt extreme political, social, or religious views that can lead to violence.
How are people targeted?
Extremist groups often target young people via the internet and social media, this process may involve:
- Groomed online or in person
- Exploitation
- Psychological manipulation
- Exposure to violent material or inappropriate information
- Risk of physical harm or death through extremist acts
If you are worried about a friend or loved one and feel they may going down the wrong path, then speak to someone who can help you to help them.
How to make a prevent referral
- Speak to a member of our Safeguarding Team, you can find their contact details at the bottom of this page
- Refer to your Local Authority Prevent Team
- Report directly to the Police 101, 999 or online here
- Contact the Prevent Advice Line 0800 0113764
- Contact the Anti- Terror Hotline on 0800 789321
- Report suspicious activity to Mi5
- Contact Crime Stoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111