Prevent policy

The Prevent Duty is a legal obligation under the Counter-Terrorism and Security Act 2015, requiring educational institutions to safeguard individuals from being drawn into radicalisation and extremism. NEC is committed to fulfilling this duty by:

• Raising awareness of radicalisation risks among staff, tutors, and students.
• Identifying and reporting concerns related to extremist influences.
• Ensuring a safe and inclusive learning environment that promotes critical thinking and resilience against extremist narratives.

This policy is aligned with the most recent versions of Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE), Ofcom Online Safety Regulations, and NEC’s Safeguarding Children, Young People and Vulnerable Adults Policy.

This policy applies to:

• All NEC students, including those under 18 and vulnerable adults.
• NEC staff, and tutors engaging with students.
• NEC’s digital platforms and communication channels, including forums, virtual learning environments (VLEs), and video conferencing.

• Radicalisation is the process by which an individual comes to support terrorism or extremist ideologies.
• Extremism refers to vocal or active opposition to fundamental British values, including democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, and mutual respect.
• Radicalisation may occur through online content, social media, peer influence, or personal grievances.

4.1 NEC Staff and Tutors

• Remain vigilant to signs of radicalisation, including changes in behaviour, social isolation, or engagement with extremist content.
• Report concerns to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) or Deputy DSL via NEC’s safeguarding reporting procedures.
• Encourage critical thinking and open discussions to build resilience against extremist narratives.

4.2 Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) and Deputy DSL

• Act as the Prevent Lead, ensuring compliance with Prevent Duty responsibilities.
• Provide training and guidance to staff on recognising radicalisation risks.
• Assess and escalate concerns to the local Prevent Duty Officer, Channel Programme, or external safeguarding agencies as appropriate.
• Maintain records of concerns and monitor emerging risks.

4.3 IT & Online Safety Measures

• NEC undertakes ad hoc monitoring where appropriate, particularly when concerns are raised or specific risks are identified.
• NEC ensures students understand online safety risks and how to report concerns.
• NEC understands that online harms can include misinformation, disinformation (including ‘fake news’), and conspiracy theories.

If a tutor, staff member, or student is concerned about radicalisation:

1. Report the concern immediately to the DSL or Deputy DSL.
2. NEC will assess the risk and, if necessary, liaise with the Local Authority Prevent Team or Channel Programme.
3. All concerns are handled sensitively and confidentially, prioritising safeguarding and support.

NEC promotes British values and a culture of inclusivity by:

• Encouraging open debate and respectful discussions.
• Providing a diverse and balanced curriculum.
• Offering pastoral and safeguarding support to students at risk.

This policy will be reviewed annually to reflect updates in legislation and best practices. Staff and tutors receive regular Prevent training as part of NEC’s safeguarding commitment.

For concerns related to radicalisation, please contact the DSL:

DSL: Sarah Turner, sarah.turner@nec.ac.uk 01223 400211             

Deputy DSL: Alison Edwards, alison.edwards@nec.ac.uk 01223 400280    

Deputy DSL: Esther Chesterman, esther.chesterman@nec.ac.uk 01223 400210 

Safeguarding concerns can also be raised via the email address safeguarding@nec.ac.uk which is confidential and managed only by the safeguarding team.