Radicalisation is a process by which individuals become drawn into extremist ideologies and, in some cases, terrorism. It can affect anyone but tends to target vulnerable people, often through online communities, peer influence or exploitation of personal grievances. Early recognition of warning signs and a supportive, non-judgemental response are key to protecting young people from harm.
Understanding radicalisation means looking for behavioural and attitudinal changes in individuals rather than making assumptions based on background or identity. There is no single pathway — radicalisation can stem from a range of factors including isolation, a search for identity or belonging, exposure to manipulative online content, or feelings of injustice and grievance.
Prevent is a UK government-led, multi-agency programme within the CONTEST counter-terrorism strategy designed to stop people from becoming terrorists or supporting terrorism. It focuses on early intervention to safeguard vulnerable individuals from radicalisation and manages the threat through community-based support and voluntary measures.
The focus of Prevent is identifying people who may be susceptible to radicalisation or getting involved in extremism and supporting them to protect them from harm. The key principles of Prevent are not about stereotyping or stigmatising communities, nor does it entail identifying or treating individuals as criminal suspects. Prevent operates outside the criminal space – it is there to provide support to individuals at risk of being groomed into terrorist activities before any crimes are committed.
Useful resources:
Managing risk of radicalisation in your education setting: There is no single route to radicalisation. However, there are some behavioural traits that could indicate that a learner is susceptible to radicalisation into terrorism. This guidance helps you consider indicators of risk and decide what response is appropriate and proportionate.
Incels - a guide for those teaching Year 10 and above: Explains what the Incel online subculture is and the signs that a young person may be engaging with it.
Teaching about misogyny and incel culture in schools: How to talk to young people about the rise of internet misogyny, the growing influence of Andrew Tate, and how to address these issues in the classroom.
Unmasking misogyny - Drama resources - Educate Against Hate: Aimed at year 9 and above, this resource comprises seven lessons, teacher guidance and classroom handouts exploring online harms and masculinity in relation to the Netflix drama Adolescence.
Educate Against Hate - Prevent Radicalisation and Extremism: Government advice and trusted resources to help safeguard students from radicalisation, build resilience to all types of extremism and promote shared values.
Prevent resources - KELSI: Resources available via KELSI.