Terrorism: ‘communities can’t be complacent’

THE NUMBER of young people being safeguarded against radicalisation has dropped in the country.

Across the UK, local authorities and community organisations work with the Home Office to deliver the Prevent strategy, a government programme designed to safeguard adults and children who may be at risk.

It is thought that a decline in Prevent referrals may be due to Covid-19.

In the last financial year, there were 4,915 national referrals, a drop of 22% on the previous year and the lowest number since comparable data was first available in 2016.

Cllr Bill Soane, executive member for neighbourhood and communities, said: “Everyone has a duty to help those closest to them becoming vulnerable to those who try to spread their ideology, hatred and conspiracy theories.

“We are fortunate to live in an area that is relatively safe, but we cannot be complacent. The events at Forbury Gardens in Reading nearly two years ago should serve as a reminder of the pain and suffering terrorism can cause.”

The council works with the police, along with partners in health, probation services, schools and colleges, to help reduce the threat of radicalisation.

It also chairs a multi-agency partnership of professionals called a Channel Panel, which provides support to vulnerable individuals who are at risk of being influenced by extremist ideologies.

To report a concern for a child, call 0118 908 8002 or email: triage@wokingham.gov.uk

To report a concern for an adult, call 0118 974 6371 or email: adultsafeguardinghub@ wokingham.gov.uk