If you are a parent or carer to a young child or young adult, you will have undoubtedly been made aware of the dangers that your loved one might face, which include.
Drugs/Substance abuse
Alcohol abuse
Sexual Exploitation.
Knife Crime
Gun Crime
Gang Crime.
But have any of you been made aware of the danger of radicalisation and extremism?
This is fast becoming a big concern that many parents face, but sadly due to the nature of it, it can be an extremely uncomfortable topic to discuss.
This needs to change
Over at Exit Hate, our charity has become aware that over 75% of the people we support were radicalised online, by people they have never met, but trusted.
Radicalised by faceless strangers they quickly became friends, and slowly over time pushed their hateful narratives and opinions on them, stepping into the place of trusted and valued loved ones that genuinely care about that individual.
Online radicalisation can happen quite quickly or over a period of time, each individual is different. The early signs of radicalisation can also mimic many other behaviours so it is vital that if you have any concerns or doubts that you seek support quickly.
We know that early intervention is the best intervention and reduces the negative impact on the individual, family and friends.It also can reduce the possibility of future criminal convictions.
People can enter these spaces simply by coming across them online whilst looking for answers or searching something completely different.
They can be introduced to groups and spaces by online friends and they may see something that resonates, such as a podcast or meme and seek spaces out to find answers.
Involvement does not mean your loved one is bad, it means your loved one is vulnerable and they have been manipulated and groomed into believing extremist narratives.
You may believe it is just a phase or they are just expressing themselves, however please consider that this could land them in trouble with the authorities and could result in arrest and even a conviction, depending on what they do.
This then will only affect their future, but also ask yourself how their actions may be affecting others, especially those who are being targeted because of their skin colour, religion or nationality, isn’t it better to do something at the start so any damage is minimal?
If you are concerned, there is help and support available. Please speak to someone i.e. the safeguarding team at your child's school, Prevent or ACT Early and they will be able to offer you some much needed advice and support.
Looking for help? Please visit:
Act Early - www.actearly.uk
Educate against hate - www.educateagainsthate.com
NSPCC Learning - www.learning.nspcc.org.uk
Exit Hate Trust - www.exithate.com
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