Prevent is a national programme that helps stop people from becoming involved in terrorism or supporting it. Anyone, including individuals, community groups, or organisations can raise a concern if they are worried about someone.
Prevent works with other safeguarding services. It helps protect people from a range of other harms such as substance abuse, gangs and physical and sexual exploitation. You can find further details on the Prevent Duty.
Signs of radicalisation
Radicalisation can occur both in person and online. Everyone is different, and there is no checklist that can tell us if someone is being radicalised, but you may notice:
- looking at or downloading extremist material online
- saying violence is an acceptable way to solve problems
- being influenced or controlled by a harmful group
- showing a strong interest in violence or wanting to harm groups of people
- using symbols or language linked to terrorist groups
What to do if you’re worried about someone
Seek advice early
If you’re worried about someone, get advice as soon as you can. Early help can prevent harm. All concerns are treated confidentially and sensitively.
- Visit the Act Early website
- Access government guidance
- For school staff, visit the Educate Against Hate website
Early intervention can help prevent harm to the individual and others. In an emergency, call 999.
If you’re concerned about a child
Contact the Multi Agency Safeguarding Hub:
- Email: mash@portsmouthcc.gov.uk
- Phone (office hours): 023 9268 8793
- Phone (out of hours): 0300 555 1373 (5pm–8am weekdays, weekends, and bank holidays)
If you’re concerned about an adult
Contact the adult safeguarding team:
- Email: adultsafeguarding@portsmouthcc.gov.uk
- Phone: 023 9268 0810
Making a referral to Prevent
For professionals
If you think someone may be at risk, you can fill in the National Referral Form (PDF). The local safeguarding team and the Prevent police will look at the information. They may offer support through a process called Channel or suggest other services that can help.
For members of the public
Visit the Act Early website. If you’re worried about someone, including friends, or family call the ACT Early Support Line on 0800 011 3764, in confidence, to share your concerns with specially trained officers. This support line is available 24 hours every day.
In an emergency, dial 999. To report suspicious activity that may indicate a terrorist threat, call the anti-terrorism hotline on 0800 789 321.
Prevent training
Under the Prevent Duty, certain organisations have a legal duty to ensure frontline staff understand Prevent and know how to raise concerns. Free e-learning packages are available on the Home Office website.
Face-to-face training
For in-person or custom training opportunities, please email prevent@portsmouthcc.gov.uk
Prevent for Schools
Schools play a vital role in protecting pupils from extremism and radicalisation, as outlined in the Prevent Duty.
Useful resources
- Managing risk of radicalisation in your education setting – GOV.UK
- Educate Against Hate website
- Portsmouth Education Partnership website
Contact us
For any queries related to Prevent, please contact prevent@portsmouthcc.gov.uk.