Concerned about radicalisation

Are you concerned someone is being radicalised?

Prevent radicalisation and extremism by acting early

It can be hard to know what to do if you’re worried because someone close is expressing extreme views or hatred, which 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 any one specific sign is the sense that something is not quite right with the person you’re worried about. You could spot one sign or a combination of signs that are increasing in intensity. Sometimes they can be indicators of other underlying issues or challenges that are not connected to radicalisation. If you are concerned 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 certain behaviours you can watch out for that we often see when 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 behaviours and vulnerabilities can make a person more at risk of 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 ‘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

To find out more about these things look at this website: What to look for: ACT Early

Act early and share your concerns

  • You can call the national police Prevent advice line in confidence, 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, a police non-emergency number is available as a text phone service on 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, especially 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.