By Counter terrorism police launch new advice service
Families can now get specialist support to help loved-ones being drawn into terrorism with the launch of a new website and helpline.
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, according to police.
Specialist support to help stop people being drawn into harmful activities is now on hand with ACT Early – a dedicated safeguarding website and advice line from the specialists at Counter Terrorism Policing (CTP).
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 2% of referrals into the Government’s anti-radicalisation programme Prevent come from that group of people, said police.
Prevent is a preventative programme delivered locally by teachers, healthcare practitioners, social workers, the police, charities, and religious leaders.
It places protection around people vulnerable to radicalisation, stopping them from being drawn into terrorism – regardless of the ideology.
It works in a similar way to safeguarding processes designed to protect people from gangs, drug abuse, and sexual exploitation.
And with Covid-19 preventing regular access to schools, social workers and mental health support, specialists at CTP are concerned that people who need help are not getting it – which makes it more important for friends and family to use the new ACT Early resources to understand what might be happening to their loved one and what support Prevent can provide.
To find out more about how to help someone close to you visit www.actearly.uk
Or call the national Police Prevent Advice Line on 0800 011 3764, in confidence and specially trained Prevent officers will listen carefully to your concerns.
