What is Radicalisation and Extremism?

Radicalisation refers to the process by which a person comes to support terrorism and forms of extremism leading to terrorism.

Extremism is defined by the Government in the Prevent Strategy as vocal or active opposition to fundamental British values, including democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty and mutual respect and tolerance of different faiths and beliefs. We also include in our definition of extremism calls for the death of members of our armed forces, whether in this country or overseas. 

Vocal  Extremism is defined by the Crown Prosecution Service as the demonstration of unacceptable behaviour by using any means or medium to express views which:

• Encourage, justify or glorify terrorist violence in furtherance of particular beliefs;
• Seek to provoke others to terrorist acts;
• Encourage other serious criminal activity or seek to provoke others to serious criminal acts; or
• Foster hatred which might lead to inter-community violence in the UK. 

The   There is no such thing as a “typical extremist”: those who become involved in extremist actions come from a range of backgrounds and experiences, and most individuals, even those who hold radical views, do not become involved in violent extremist activity.

 Students may become susceptible to radicalisation through a range of social, personal and environmental factors - it is known that violent extremists exploit vulnerabilities in individuals to drive a wedge between them and their families and communities. 

At Spinney Hill Primary School

Spinney Hill Primary School values freedom of speech and the expression of beliefs/ ideology as fundamental rights underpinning our society’s values. Both students and teachers have the right to speak freely and voice their opinions. However, freedom comes with responsibility and free speech that is designed to manipulate the vulnerable or that leads to violence and harm of others goes against the moral principles in which freedom of speech is valued. Free speech is not an unqualified privilege; it is subject to laws and policies governing equality, human rights, community safety and community cohesion. 

The current threat from terrorism in the United Kingdom may include the exploitation of vulnerable people, to involve them in terrorism or in activity in support of terrorism. The normalisation of extreme views may also make children and young people vulnerable to future manipulation and exploitation. Spinney Hill Primary School is clear that this exploitation and radicalisation should be viewed as a safeguarding concern. Any concerns raised are reported to Mrs Stretton who will seek advice from Children's Services Duty and Assessment Team and where appropriate Leicestershire Constabulary Prevent Team.

Spinney Hill Primary School seeks to protect children and young people against the messages of all violent extremism including, but not restricted to, those linked to religious ideologies, or to Far Right/Neo Nazi/White Supremacist ideology, Irish Nationalist extremist and Animal Rights movements.

The NSPCC have launched of a free, 24-hour service after recent terrorist attacks which have highlighted the growing problem of individuals being influenced by extremism.

The NSPCC helpline provides support to adults who have concerns about children and young people being radicalised or who need advice on how to talk to their children about issues related to terrorism.

They can advise adults who are worried about a child being groomed.

Spotting the signs and getting support

Radicalisation can be really difficult to spot. Signs that may indicate a child is being radicalised include:

• isolating themselves from family and friends
• talking as if from a scripted speech
• increased levels of anger
• becoming disrespectful and asking inappropriate questions.
•  

However, these signs don’t necessarily mean a child is being radicalised – it may be normal teenage behaviour or a sign that something else is wrong. If you notice any change in a child’s behaviour and you’re worried, you can call the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000.

Children who are at risk of radicalisation may have low self-esteem, be members of gangs or a victim of bullying or discrimination. Radicals might target them and tell them they can be part of something special. And may brainwash them into cutting themselves off from their friends and family.

For further advice from the NSPCC Click here:  https://www.nspcc.org.uk/fighting-for-childhood/news-opinion/protecting-children-from-radicalisation/