Prevent Duty – A Summary for Parents and Carers

What is the Prevent Duty?

The Prevent Duty is part of UK safeguarding law. It requires schools and other public organisations to help protect children from being drawn into terrorism or extremist ideas, in the same way they protect children from other harms such as drugs, gangs, or exploitation. [assets.pub...ice.gov.uk], [gov.uk]

Why does this apply to schools?

Schools have a legal responsibility under the Counter‑Terrorism and Security Act 2015 to:

  • Keep children safe
  • Promote their wellbeing
  • Support pupils who may be vulnerable to harmful influences

Protecting children from radicalisation is treated as part of normal safeguarding, not something separate or punitive. [assets.pub...ice.gov.uk]

What does “radicalisation” mean?

Radicalisation is a process where someone may gradually come to support extreme or harmful ideas that could lead to violence or terrorism.

It does not mean:

  • Holding strong opinions
  • Discussing political or religious views
  • Peaceful protest or debate

Schools support open discussion and critical thinking, while helping children stay safe. [gov.uk]

How do schools carry out the Prevent Duty?

Schools do this in age‑appropriate and proportionate ways, including:

  • Teaching children how to think critically
  • Promoting respect, tolerance, and understanding of different beliefs
  • Encouraging positive values such as democracy and the rule of law
  • Providing a safe space to discuss concerns or questions
  • Using internet filtering and monitoring to prevent access to harmful content
  • Training staff to recognise when a child may need extra support. [assets.pub...ice.gov.uk]

Does this mean children are monitored or labelled?

No.
The guidance is clear that:

  • There is no single profile of a child at risk
  • Children are not labelled or accused
  • Any concerns are handled sensitively and proportionately
  • Support is offered early, before problems escalate. [assets.pub...ice.gov.uk]

What happens if a school is worried about a child?

If staff are concerned, they follow the school’s safeguarding procedures, which may include:

  • Talking with the child
  • Working with parents or carers
  • Seeking advice from safeguarding professionals

In some cases, schools may refer to Channel, a voluntary support programme that helps children and families access guidance and support. This is not a criminal process and focuses on wellbeing. [gov.uk]

How are parents involved?

Schools aim to:

  • Work openly and honestly with parents
  • Share concerns where appropriate
  • Support families, not blame them

Parents are encouraged to:

  • Talk to their child about what they learn
  • Contact the school if they have questions or worries
  • Raise any concerns with the school’s Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

 

The full guidance is available here