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POLICY INFORMATION

The Prevent Duty is set out in the Counter-Terrorism and Security Act 2015. Registered early years childcare settings are specified authorities under the Act and must have due regard to the need to prevent people from being drawn into terrorism.

The aim of Prevent is to stop people from becoming terrorists or supporting terrorism. Prevent forms part of the Government's wider safeguarding and counter-terrorism arrangements and includes early intervention to support individuals who may be vulnerable to radicalisation.

Prevent addresses all forms of terrorism and extremism, including Extreme Right-Wing activity, religious extremism and animal rights extremism. Concerns may also arise from online activity, harmful ideologies or other influences where there is evidence that a child or family member may be vulnerable to being drawn into terrorism or extremist activity.

Protecting children and young adults from the risk of radicalisation is part of our wider safeguarding responsibilities and should be approached in the same way as other safeguarding concerns. Staff should remain alert to changes in a child's, family member or staff members behaviour, circumstances or presentation which may indicate that they need additional support or protection.

Martyn's Law

The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, commonly known as Martyn's Law, is not yet in force but introduces new legal requirements intended to improve preparedness for and protection against terrorist attacks at certain premises and events.

Early years settings are within the education sector covered by the legislation. Paint Pots will monitor Government guidance and take any action required when the legislation is implemented.

Recognising Concerns

There is no single sign that indicates that someone is being radicalised. Staff should consider individual circumstances and any changes in someone’s behaviour alongside other information or concerns.

Possible indicators may include:

• becoming increasingly isolated from family or friends;
• significant changes in behaviour, mood or relationships;
• expressing or repeating extreme or concerning views which are inappropriate for their age;
• showing increased hostility or intolerance towards particular groups;
• becoming unusually secretive about activities or online use;
• being exposed to extremist material or influences; or
• evidence that another person may be attempting to influence, groom or exploit the child.