Renfrewshire Council

How to spot signs of terrorism, extremism or radicalisation

If you're worried that someone you know might be at risk of getting involved in terrorism, extremism or radicalism, you should report this.

There is no single type of person likely to become involved in terrorism or extremism and the process of radicalisation is different for every individual.

You can find out how to spot the signs of radicalisation on the Action Counters Terrorism website.

You can also see advice for the public, families, and young people, and guidance for businesses on the Counter Terrorism Policing website.

Teachers and parents can also find advice and resources at the Educate Against Hate website.

How to report terrorism, extremism or radicalisation

You can report any concerns you may have by phoning:

• 999 and asking for police, if it is an emergency
• the Anti-Terrorist Hotline on 0800 789 321
• CrimeStoppers on 0800 555 111
• Police Scotland on 101, if you have a non-emergency concern.

If you're a young person in education or training, you can talk to a member of staff at your school, college or university.

The Prevent strategy

Prevent is part of the UK Government's counter-terrorism strategy known as 'CONTEST'.

In Scotland, the Prevent strategy tackles all forms of violent extremism and terrorism. 

It aims to identify and stop people from becoming terrorists or supporting terrorism. It also supports people who have engaged in terrorism to rehabilitate.

You can read more about the Prevent strategy at the Home Office website.

Prevent in Renfrewshire

Prevent is delivered locally through Prevent Multi-Agency Panels (PMAP) which focuses on the early identification of individuals who are vulnerable to being drawn into extremism.

After the police have assessed the risk of a referred case, they may coordinate an appropriate multi-agency response to safeguard the person of concern.

Renfrewshire Council is a lead partner on the PMAP, which works with educators, health professionals, and community organisations to provide early intervention, support and safeguarding.

We also have a dedicated single point of contact (SPOC) who can make a referral to Police Scotland, make enquiries, and discuss a plan of action about any concerns you have.

You can contact the SPOC by email at preventpc@renfrewshire.gov.uk.

You should always contact the police by phoning 999 in the first instance if it is an emergency or you have an urgent concern.