CONTEST
The aim of CONTEST is to reduce the risk from terrorism to the UK, its citizens and interests overseas, so people can live freely and with confidence.
The UK government’s CONTEST strategy is structured around four core workstreams, commonly known as the “four Ps”:
- Prevent: Stop people from becoming terrorists or supporting terrorism.
- Pursue: Stop and investigate terrorist attacks before they happen.
- Protect: Strengthen security and defences against attacks.
- Prepare: Minimize the impact of attacks that cannot be stopped.
If concerning behaviours are noticed, professionals should consider whether they indicate the person is at risk of becoming involved in, or supporting, terrorism. Professionals working in sectors covered by the statutory Prevent duty should follow the ‘notice, check, share’ process to determine if the concern is relevant to Prevent. This includes checking those concerns with the person responsible for safeguarding within their organisation, such as the designated safeguarding lead, and by referring to the Prevent duty training Awareness and Referrals courses.
If there remains a concern that someone is at risk of becoming involved in, or supporting, terrorism, the concern should be shared by making a referral to the police using the Prevent National Referral Form (NRF). The NRF helps professionals to articulate their concern and includes factors to consider as part of a referral.
Members of the public who are concerned that someone may be becoming radicalised should visit ACT Early for advice, support and information on making a Prevent referral or call the national police Prevent advice line on 0800 011 3764 to discuss their concerns.