What is Radicalisation

What is Radicalisation?

Radicalisation is when someone starts to believe or support extreme views and, in some cases, goes on to support terrorist groups or acts.

Sometimes, it is a gradual process and sometimes it happens very quickly, ending with an adult or child being drawn into harmful activities or groups.

Radicalisation can be more common during times of uncertainty, a change in circumstances or period of transition.

Can you stop someone becoming radicalised?

Because radicalisation is a process, it means there are times where it’s possible to step in and help the person at risk.

A key part of the Government’s Prevent strategy is the Channel programme; a multi-agency approach to identify and provide support to individuals who are at risk of being drawn into terrorist-related activity. 

Can anyone be radicalised?

Yes, it can happen to anyone regardless of how old they are, where they live or their background.

Although the process is different for each individual, there are certain factors which can lead to children and young people becoming radicalised. 

Where does radicalisation happen?

Radicalisation can come from face to face contact within the family, from friends or community groups.

It also takes place online, especially through social media because it gives people with extremist views the opportunity to target, befriend and radicalise children. Radicalisers often pretend to be someone they’re not.

There are also online articles, images, speeches and videos that promote terrorism or encourage violence.

Radicalisers know that children and young people are vulnerable, and they target this vulnerability.

A radicaliser will act as a friend to a vulnerable person, communicating with them through texts, emails, webpages, chat rooms, via social media, or certain apps.

Conclusion

We need to safeguard and protect children by sharing our concerns to stop them being manipulated and groomed to potentially hurt themselves or others.

Click here to find out more about managing the risk of radicalisation in an education setting