Together, We Support Individuals and Communities to Live, Learn, and Stay Safe
Background
Some people, especially those feeling isolated or vulnerable with a strong desire to seek new meaning, identity or purpose may be drawn into belief systems that reject tolerance and diversity.
| Contributing Factor | Potential vulnerability |
|---|---|
| Low self-esteem or identity struggles | Feeling unsure about who you are, where you belong, or lacking confidence can make someone more vulnerable to extreme ideas that promise purpose or belonging. |
| Substance or alcohol misuse | Using drugs or alcohol to cope with stress, anxiety, or emotional pain can increase the risk of being influenced by others. |
| Involvement in crime or anti-social behaviour | Acting out, breaking rules, or withdrawing from positive social circles might reflect a growing disconnection from community values and support systems. |
These views can become deeply hostile toward others based on differences such as ethnicity, religion, gender, or identity—and in some cases, they may feel violence is justified to achieve certain aims.
When these beliefs become extreme and rigid, they’re known as radicalism or extremism—and understanding how they take hold is the first step in protecting those at risk.
Things you may notice
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Increasing Intolerance
Expressing strong dislike or hatred toward people of different backgrounds, religions, cultures, or identities.
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Isolation from Friends and Family
Losing interest in normal hobbies or withdrawing from usual social circles and becoming secretive about new contacts or online activity.
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Fixation on Injustice or Grievances
Obsessively talking about perceived wrongs or unfair treatment, often blaming entire groups or systems and maybe using language that sound scripted using words, you wouldn’t expect them to know or use.
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Sudden Changes in Behaviour or Appearance
Adopting new language, symbols, clothing, or routines that reflect extremist ideologies.
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Use of Hate Speech or Conspiracy Theories
Watching, sharing, making or endorsing harmful content online, including racist, sexist, or anti-democratic views.
Code Institute strategy to prevent people from being drawn into terrorism
Duty and Responsibility
Code Institute has a combined Safeguarding and Prevent Action Plan which is reviewed and updated regularly.
Training
We ensure all students and staff participate in training on Prevent, British Values ( Democracy, Rule of Law, Mutual Respect and Tolerance, Individual Liberty) and Inclusion. This helps to safeguard communities against the threat of extremism, radicalisation, and terrorism.
Collaboration
We work with the Department of Education, criminal justice system, faith centres and charities to encourage individuals and communities to challenge violent extremist ideologies and behaviours at the earliest opportunity.
Tailored Support
It's important that any participation is done so voluntarily. Multi agency partners assess risk and provided bespoke support for the individual; this support is also overseen by the local authority.