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Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

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Protection from Radicalisation and Extremism (Prevent Duty) Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to outline {{org_field_name}}’s approach to preventing radicalisation and extremism, in line with the UK Government’s Prevent Duty under the Counter-Terrorism and Security Act 2015. This policy ensures that individuals receiving support within our service are safeguarded from being drawn into terrorism and extremist ideologies.

Our organisation is committed to promoting a safe, inclusive, and diverse environment where the risks of radicalisation are minimised through robust safeguarding procedures, staff training, and a person-centred approach. This policy aligns with the Care Act 2014, CQC Fundamental Standards, and Working Together to Safeguard Children (2018) guidance.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all staff members, volunteers, agency workers, and any external stakeholders who engage with individuals within our Supported Living service. It applies to all settings where individuals receive care and support, including digital and online environments.

3. Related Policies

• SL07 – Person-Centred Care Policy
• SL13 – Safeguarding Adults from Abuse and Improper Treatment Policy
• SL39 – Mental Capacity and Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards Policy
• SL34 – Confidentiality and Data Protection (GDPR) Policy
• SL42 – Communication and Engagement with Service Users and Families Policy
• SL23 – Lone Working and Staff Safety Policy

4. Principles of Prevent Duty

4.1 Understanding Radicalisation and Extremism

• Radicalisation refers to the process by which individuals come to support terrorism or extremist ideologies.
• Extremism is defined as vocal or active opposition to fundamental British values, including democracy, rule of law, individual liberty, and mutual respect and tolerance for different faiths and beliefs.
• Vulnerable individuals, including those receiving support within our service, may be at greater risk due to social isolation, mental health issues, disabilities, or lack of critical thinking skills.

4.2 Staff Responsibilities and Awareness

• All staff have a duty to identify and report concerns where an individual is at risk of radicalisation.
• Staff should be vigilant for signs such as:
  • Expressing extreme political or religious views.
  • Sudden withdrawal from usual activities or friendships.
  • Increased use of extremist language or narratives.
  • Accessing, sharing, or promoting extremist content online.
  • Justifying violence or making concerning statements.
• Every concern must be reported following the safeguarding procedure, ensuring a proportionate and appropriate response.

4.3 Risk Assessment and Safeguarding Measures

• Risk assessments should be conducted for individuals deemed vulnerable to radicalisation, following the Safeguarding Adults from Abuse and Improper Treatment Policy (SL13).
• Concerns should be documented and escalated to the Safeguarding Lead, who will liaise with the local Prevent Coordinator, Channel Panel, or local authority safeguarding board.
• If immediate risk is identified, emergency services and Counter Terrorism Police (CTP) should be contacted.

4.4 Partnership and Multi-Agency Working

• Collaboration with external agencies (e.g., Local Authorities, Police, NHS, and Home Office) is key to managing radicalisation risks effectively.
• We will actively engage with the Channel Programme, a multi-agency approach that provides early intervention support for individuals at risk of radicalisation.
• Information-sharing protocols must be followed under GDPR regulations to balance confidentiality with safeguarding responsibilities.

4.5 Promoting British Values and Inclusion

• Our service is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and tolerant environment, reinforcing British values.
• Activities and engagement initiatives should promote understanding, respect, and diversity.
• Staff should encourage open discussions about different beliefs and worldviews to reduce isolation and prevent misinformation.
• Online safety awareness is provided to staff and individuals to reduce exposure to extremist material.

4.6 Staff Training and Development

• All staff must complete mandatory Prevent Duty training upon induction and refresher courses annually.
• Training includes:
  • Recognising signs of radicalisation.
  • Understanding referral pathways to safeguarding leads and external agencies.
  • Engaging in non-judgemental discussions with individuals at risk.
  • De-escalation techniques for handling sensitive conversations.

5. Reporting Concerns and Referral Process

5.1 Internal Reporting

• Any concerns must be reported to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) immediately.
• The DSL will assess the concern, document findings, and escalate if required.
• All reports will be logged confidentially and stored securely, in line with GDPR requirements.

5.2 External Referral Pathways

• If a concern requires further action, referrals will be made to:
  • Local Prevent Coordinators
  • Channel Panel for multi-agency interventions
  • Local Authority Safeguarding Board
  • Police or Counter Terrorism Units (if there is an immediate risk)

5.3 Supporting Individuals at Risk

• If an individual is identified as being vulnerable to radicalisation, a tailored support plan will be created.
• We will work with families, advocacy groups, and professionals to provide guidance, social inclusion, and mental health support.
• Ongoing risk monitoring will be implemented to ensure protective measures remain effective.

6. Confidentiality and Data Protection

• All data collected under Prevent Duty referrals must be securely stored and accessed only by authorised personnel.
• Information sharing will comply with GDPR and the Confidentiality and Data Protection Policy (SL34).
• Any decision to share information must be based on the need to protect the individual and others from harm.

7. Monitoring and Continuous Improvement

• Our Prevent Duty procedures are reviewed annually to reflect changes in legislation, CQC guidance, and best practices.
• Lessons learned from past cases or near misses are integrated into training and operational policies.
• Regular audits ensure staff compliance with Prevent Duty responsibilities.

8. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if required due to legislative changes, safeguarding incidents, or recommendations from regulatory bodies.

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Responsible Person: {{org_field_registered_manager_first_name}} {{org_field_registered_manager_last_name}}
Reviewed on: {{last_update_date}}
Next Review Date: {{next_review_date}}
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