Prevent is a national programme which forms one strand of the Government’s Counter Terrorism programme. It addresses all forms of dangerous extremism including both Islamist extremism and also Far right extremism.
While actions inspired by Islamic State are high profile nationally and internationally there are many other groups who hold extreme views or carry out acts of terrorism. The white supremacist ideology of extreme right-wing groups has also been particularly active and has also provided both the inspiration and justification for people who have committed terrorist acts.
The objectives of Prevent are:
- To respond to the ideological challenge of terrorism and the threat we face from those who promote it.
- To prevent people from being drawn into terrorism and to ensure that they are given appropriate advice and support.
- To work with sectors and institutions where there are risks of radicalisation that we need to address.
There are specific statutory obligations under Prevent for local authorities; schools; higher and further education; health services; prisons; probation and the Police. Published national guidance identifies best practice for each of the main sectors and describes ways in which they can comply with the duty, as well as providing advice and information on how compliance with the duty will be monitored.
A Prevent Board has been established to coordinate this work in B&NES.
You can find more information and make a referral on the Council website.
