Signs of extremism
There are often no obvious signs of extremism.
There are frequent requests for a list of signs but although changes in behaviour and dress are often cited these will often be signs of perfectly normal behaviour, particularly among young people in their late teens and early 20s.
There are some physical signs that would indicate concerns relating to extremism such as the tattoos that far right organisation supporters will sometimes display.
You are not expected to be aware of the significance of tattoos but if you are worried about someone with what you think may be far right tattoos you should pass the details on to the Safeguarding team or officer. They can contact local Prevent coordinators for help if needed.
Any concerns you have will usually be similar to other Safeguarding concerns. These may include changes in behaviour and you should use your professional judgement to decide when these are worrying and when they are within the normal range.
There are concerns which should always be passed on such as:
- evidence of sharing of extremism websites
- evidence of homophobic; religion based or racist bullying
It is your own professional judgement which will lead you to decide to refer a Safeguarding concern whether that relates to extremist exploitation or any other kind of exploitation.
It should be noted that individuals taking their religion more seriously, choosing to grow a beard or wearing a headscarf for religious reasons are NOT signs of extremism.