NSPCC Trains Workers To Spot Future Extremists

A charity is providing the first national service for people who fear their children are being radicalised by extremists.

In response to the threat of radicalisation and terrorism in the UK, the Government is providing funds to ensure NSPCC counsellors are trained to spot the warning signs if a youngster is at risk.

The charity says tackling the effects of radicalisation is similar to its more usual work of trying to stop abuse.

Chief executive Peter Wanless said: "The fact that a young person might hold extreme or radical views is not a safeguarding issue in itself.

"But when young people are groomed for extremist purposes and encouraged to commit acts that could hurt themselves or others, then it becomes abuse.

"That's why we've trained our counsellors to cope with this fresh danger to young people."

The charity offers a free, 24-hour service for parents who either fear their children are being radicalised, or are worried about the impact of international terrorist atrocities.

Among the signs a youngster shows when they are becoming radicalised are: they begin isolating themselves, they talk as if they are reading from a script, they are prone to outbursts of anger or being disrespectful, and they ask inappropriate questions.

Mr Wanless added: "We have seen a wave of terrorist attacks in recent weeks and months and both parents and children tell us how frightened they are by what is happening.

"So it is vital that we are here for parents when they need our support and are able to provide them with non-judgmental advice on issues ranging from the wider terrorist threat to the dangers of radicalisation."

In May, Ofsted chief Sir Michael Wilshaw said that thousands of children in unregistered schools could be at risk of being indoctrinated.

Inspectors have identified 100 suspected unregistered schools across the country.

The Government's Security Minister Ben Wallace said: "We have seen all too tragically the devastating impact radicalisation and terrorism can have on individuals, families and communities.

"That's why we have provided the NSPCC with financial support.

"We would encourage anybody who is worried that they or somebody else may be vulnerable to radicalisation to call the NSPCC and seek their completely confidential advice."

The helpline number is 0808 800 5000.