Concerned about radicalisation

Are you concerned someone is being radicalised?

Prevent radicalisation and extremism by acting early

It's hard to know what to do if someone close expresses extreme views. Particularly if it could lead to them harming themselves or others.

Signs of radicalisation: what to look for

There are many factors that can make someone vulnerable to radicalisation. They can apply to any age-group, social class, religion, ethnicity, or educational background. More important than noticing one specific sign, look for an overall sense of something being not quite right. You could spot one sign or a combination of signs that are increasing in intensity. Sometimes the indicators signal other issues that are not connected to radicalisation. But trust your instincts and contact us or one of the organisations listed at the end of this page.

Signs and vulnerabilities

There is no single route to radicalisation. However, there are patterns that signal someone is being led down the path of extremism. These signs and vulnerabilities are not listed in any order of importance. Experience shows that some of these patterns can make one more vulnerable to being exploited.

Identifying them doesn't necessarily mean someone is being radicalised. There can be other explanations behind the behaviours you are seeing. If you are worried, then act early and reach out for help to discuss your concerns.

  • Being influenced or controlled by a group
  • An obsessive or angry desire for change or for ‘something to be done’
  • Spending an increasing amount of time online and sharing extreme views on social media.
  • Personal crisis
  • Need for identity, meaning and belonging
  • Mental health issues
  • Looking to blame others
  • Desire for status, need to dominate

Act early and share your concerns

  • You can call the national police Prevent advice line in confidence. You'll be able to share your concerns with specially trained officers. The advice line is open 9am – 5pm every day. Tel: 0800 011 3764
  • If you’re deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech impairment, use this non-emergency text line: 18001 101
  • In an emergency, please make sure you’re safe and dial 999
  • If you are a member of public sector staff such as a teacher, GP, police officer or social worker we encourage you to continue to use your designated safeguarding route to make referrals to Prevent or seek further advice. The advice line is designed for members of the public to use. It is especially for friends and family, or those who work with vulnerable or young people in volunteering roles.

Harrow local process for sharing your concerns

If you are concerned that someone has become, or might become, radicalised you can refer them to a local team. Their case will be passed to the national Prevent programme.