PREVENT
What to do if you’re worried about someone
What to do if you’re worried about someone
Try to speak with them
If it’s somebody that you know well, try talking to them about what you’ve noticed if you feel comfortable doing so.
Find advice on how to do this:
- for talking to friends and family on the ACT Early website
- for those working in schools on the Educate Against Hate website
Be aware that your concern might not be welcome at first, and the person may get angry or defensive. You could try talking to other family and friends to see if they have noticed anything similar before getting expert advice.
Ask for advice
If you are worried that someone you know is being radicalised, ask for advice as soon as possible:
- visit the ACT Early website
The earlier you ask for advice, the sooner you can help to stop that person becoming a danger to themself or others. Anything you share will always be in confidence.
After talking to someone about your worries, you may be asked to help create a referral to the Prevent programme.
Lancashire Prevent contacts
If you have concerns about someone and would like more advice:
Local Authority Prevent team
Call 01254 585 260
Email Prevent.Team@Blackburn.gov.uk
Police Prevent Team
Call 01772 413398
If you think a threat is imminent call the police on 999
Alternatively contact the police confidentially on the Anti-terrorist hotline 0800 789 321.
You can also go to the ACT Early website, which has information about:
- what Prevent is
- how to spot the signs
- how to stay safe online
- available support and resources
Make a Prevent referral
To make a referral to the Counter-terrorism Policing team you can download the National Prevent referral form. You must send the completed form to concern@lancashire.police.uk
Any information, advice or concern will be handled with sensitivity and where possible anonymity will be maintained.
Who can make a referral?
Anyone can make a referral, not just a professional. You do not need the consent of the person. They will be asked to consent to Channel if they are assessed as needing Channel support.
The ACT Early website has guidance specifically to help family members and friends.
For more resources, useful information and policy advice, visit the Lancashire Prevent Partnership website