Radicalisation
Radicalisation is the process through which an individual or group develops extreme political, social or religious beliefs.
If you are concerned that someone you know may be vulnerable to being radicalised, you can get support and guidance on the Action Counters Terrorism website.
We work with Essex Police on their Prevent strategy, which aims to stop people from becoming involved in terrorism by working with individuals and communities to address issues before they become a criminal matter.
Report suspicious activity
If you see something suspicious, report it, no matter how small. The best way to prevent terrorism is by stopping it as soon as possible.
If you're concerned about a family member or friend, call 101 and ask for the Prevent Team.
If you think an individual or group is being radicalised, planning violence or is behaving suspiciously, you can:
- call 999 in an emergency
- call the police counter-terrorism hotline on 0800 789 321
- call 101 and ask for the Prevent Team
- tell the Security Service (MI5) about threats to national security
- report online terrorist material
If you suspect somebody of being involved in terrorism in any way or are suspicious, you should report it to people who can help. You can remain anonymous.
For more guidance on counterterrorism, you can look at the National Counter Terrorism Security Office (NaCTSO) website.
Safety advice
The public guidance for firearms and weapons attacks is to:
- RUN to a place of safety. This is a far better option than to surrender or negotiate. If there’s nowhere to go, then…
- HIDE rather than to confront. Remember to turn your phone to silent and turn off vibrate. Barricade yourself in if you can. Then finally and only when it is safe to do so…
- TELL the police by calling 999
You can find more information on the Counter Terrorism Policing website.