Radicalisation
Young people may be exposed to influence from peers, from older people and the internet as they begin to explore ideas and issues around identity. There is no single journey to becoming radicalised; a combination of influences and factors may work in tandem.
Children at risk of radicalisation may have low self-esteem, or be victims of bullying or discrimination. Extremists may provide a sense of belonging whilst brainwashing them and isolating them from their family and friends. Radicalisation or a child at risk of radicalisation is a safeguarding issue that will require a multi-agency response.
Working Together To Safeguard Children (2023) states that "suffering or being likely to suffer significant harm is the threshold for child protection enquiries and can take different forms, including sexual, physical or emotional abuse, neglect or domestic abuse (including controlling or coercive behaviour119), exploitation by criminal gangs or organised crime groups, trafficking, online abuse, sexual exploitation, and the influences of extremism which could lead to radicalisation."
Possible signs of radicalisation may include:
- Increased anger and/or conviction that their religion/culture or beliefs are under threat
- Isolating themselves from their friends & family
- Talking as if from a script
- Increased secretiveness especially around their internet use
- Possessing items such as phones etc from unknown sources
However any of these signs might be usual teenage behaviour, or a sign that something else is wrong. If you have concerns talk to the child’s social worker and your supervising social worker. You can also talk to the school.
Serious concerns should be reported immediately in line with your fostering service safeguarding policy. If you feel the child is in immediate danger or at risk of leaving the country you will also need to contact the police and ensure their passport is safely stored.
The NSPCC has further information on protecting children from radicalisation here.
The government website has a page where you can report any online content related to terrorism anonymously here.
