Prevent is the Government's programme for safeguarding people who may be vulnerable to radicalisation. It is not about criminalising children or families — it is an early support programme, designed to help people before harm occurs.

At the heart of Prevent is a process called Channel, a voluntary, confidential programme that brings together professionals to offer tailored support to anyone identified as being at risk. A referral to Channel is not a criminal matter — it is a request for help.

All staff at Brierley receive Prevent awareness training so they can recognise the signs that a child may be at risk of radicalisation and know how to respond. This training is updated regularly.

We work to build resilience in our learners through the relationships we have with them, the values we promote, and the safe, inclusive environment we create every day. Children who feel valued, understood and connected are less vulnerable to those who might seek to manipulate or exploit them.

Our Prevent lead is our Designated Safeguarding Lead, Melanie Boffey.

Radicalisation can be difficult to spot, and no single sign should be taken in isolation. Things that might cause concern include:

• A sudden change in behaviour, friendships or how a child talks about certain groups of people
• Expressing views that are intolerant of others — whether based on religion, race, gender, sexuality or other differences
• Withdrawing from family or previous friendships
• Accessing or sharing extreme content online
• Talking about a cause or ideology in a way that seems out of character

If something doesn't feel right, trust your instincts and talk to us.

If you have any concerns about your child or another young person — however small — please get in touch. You don't need to be certain. Our job is to take what you tell us seriously and respond appropriately.

Melanie Boffey, Designated Safeguarding Lead 0113 323 0073 | info.brierley@coopacademies.co.uk

You can also contact external organisations directly and in confidence:

ACT Early — the Government's early intervention support line for anyone worried about radicalisation. 0800 011 3764 (free, confidential) | www.actearly.uk

Educate Against Hate — practical advice for parents on protecting children from extremism. www.educateagainsthate.com

DfE Helpline — for concerns about extremism in a school or organisation working with children. 020 7340 7264 | counter.extremism@education.gov.uk Open Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm

Leeds Prevent Team The Leeds Prevent Team works with schools, families and communities across the city to safeguard people who may be vulnerable to radicalisation. They can offer advice, guidance and support in confidence. 0113 535 0810 | preventeam@leeds.gov.u

The Leeds Prevent Team works across the city to safeguard people who may be vulnerable to radicalisation — supporting individuals, families and communities before harm occurs. They can offer advice, guidance and a confidential conversation if something is worrying you.

If you have a concern about your child or someone you know, you can contact them directly. You don't need to be certain that something is wrong — they would always rather hear from you early than not at all. When a concern is raised, they will talk it through with you and decide together how best to help.

For families who may need more structured support, the Leeds Prevent Team coordinates access to Channel — a voluntary, multi-agency programme that brings together professionals to develop a tailored support plan for individuals identified as at risk. Channel is not a criminal process, and referrals are handled sensitively and confidentially.

0113 535 0810 (Monday to Friday, 8am to 4pm) preventeam@leeds.gov.uk

You can also find further information on the Leeds City Council website: leeds.gov.uk/prevent