If a crime is taking place, or there is an immediate threat to life, dial 999.
Prevent helps to keep communities safe from the threat of terrorism and violent extremism by stopping people from becoming terrorists or supporting terrorism.
We have a duty to support people at risk of being drawn into extreme views or beliefs, known as being radicalised. People who have been radicalised may go on to commit acts of terrorism.
Prevent programmes can offer counselling, mentoring, and education to people at risk, once we are made aware of them.
Signs of radicalisation
Radicalisation can happen to individuals of any age, religion, ethnicity, social class, or educational background. They may:
- be influenced or controlled by a group
- become obsessive or angry about changing society in some way
- spend large amounts of time online sharing extreme views
- be in personal crisis
- have a need for identity, meaning and belonging
- have mental health issues
- look to blame others
- be looking for more status or to dominate others
You can learn more about the signs of radicalisation on the ACT Early website.
Make a referral for someone you are concerned about
Anyone can make a Prevent referral. If you are concerned that someone is becoming radicalised, it's important to share this information.
To make a referral, call the National Police Prevent advice line on 0800 011 3764, or use the Dorset Police online referral form.
For updates on a report, or for general advice before making a referral, call 01202 229 319 or email dorsetprevent@dorset.police.uk.
If you find online content promoting terrorism or extremism you can report terrorism on the GOV.UK website.
Being referred to Prevent is not a punishment, but a means of providing support. Prevent referrals will not appear on the individual’s criminal record. All reports will be handled sensitively; your identity will not be shared with the individual without your permission.
Advice from Dorset Police
The Dorset Police website has a dedicated area discussing the county's Prevent strategy and how to refer people in to local programs.
Government guidance
The below government guidance might be helpful during the referral and investigation process.