Anti-Radicalisation Statement

British Values & Anti-Radicalisation and Extremism Policy

Statement of Commitment

At Truly Scrumptious Early Years Nursery, we are fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children and staff. We recognise that protecting children from the risk of radicalisation is no different from protecting them from other forms of harm or vulnerability.

All staff at Truly Scrumptious are expected to uphold and actively promote the core British Values:

• Democracy

• The rule of law

• Individual liberty

• Mutual respect

• Tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs

Policy Aims

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that:

• Staff are fully aware of the risks associated with radicalisation.

• Staff do not dismiss the possibility that radicalisation could occur in our setting.

• We work collaboratively with external agencies to safeguard children from all forms of extremist behaviour.

Our Objectives

We aim to:

• Ensure all staff and volunteers understand what radicalisation and extremism are, and are appropriately trained (e.g. via Home Office Prevent training).

• Encourage children to participate in local community events (e.g. carnivals), helping them appreciate and value people from diverse backgrounds and beliefs.

• Support children in making positive choices from an early age, understanding the impact of their actions on others.

• Ensure all staff are familiar with and follow our anti-radicalisation and extremism procedures.

• Keep parents and carers informed about our safeguarding policies, and regularly review our systems to ensure they remain effective and up to date.

Definitions

Radicalisation: The process by which a person comes to support terrorism or forms of extremism. It may involve a desire for fundamental changes in political, economic, or social systems and can be influenced by personal, social, or environmental factors.

Extremism: The holding of extreme political or religious ideologies. It includes vocal or active opposition to British Values, and in our definition, includes calls for violence against members of the armed forces.

There is no single profile for individuals at risk of radicalisation. Influences may include family, friends, online content, or unmet personal needs. The internet and social media have become significant tools in spreading extremist views.

Recognising Signs of Radicalisation

Staff are trained to be alert to possible signs that a child or individual may be at risk of radicalisation. These may include:

• Spending increasing time with known or suspected extremists

• Changes in dress or personal appearance linked to a particular ideology

• Behaviour becoming focused on an extremist cause

• Withdrawal from usual friends and activities

• Attempting to recruit others to an extremist cause

• Communicating in ways that show support for an extremist ideology

• Using derogatory or inflammatory language towards specific groups

• A rise in prejudice-related incidents, such as:

  • Verbal or physical assaults

  • Damage to property

  • Provocative or inflammatory behaviour

  • Derogatory name-calling

Curriculum Approach

Our curriculum promotes:

• Respect, tolerance, and diversity

• Encouragement for children to express their views

• Understanding that everyone is entitled to their beliefs, and that these should not be imposed on others

We recognise that children with low self-esteem or those experiencing difficulties may be more vulnerable. We therefore strive to build confidence, resilience, and mutual respect from an early age.

Referral Procedures

Although there have been no incidents of radicalisation at Truly Scrumptious, we remain vigilant and informed about potential threats within the wider community.

Staff are expected to:

• Remain alert and challenge the assumption that “it couldn’t happen here.”

• Know how and when to refer concerns through the appropriate safeguarding channels.

• Be aware of the Channel Programme, which offers early support to individuals at risk of radicalisation.

Raising Concerns
The Department for Education has a dedicated helpline for staff to raise concerns related to extremism:
📞 020 7340 7264
📧 counter.extremism@education.gsi.gov.uk

Note: This helpline is not for use in emergencies. In situations involving immediate danger or harm, normal emergency safeguarding procedures must be followed.

Safeguarding Leads

Designated Safeguarding Leads (DSL):

• Romford: Brittany

• Ongar: Patricia, Hayley, Kim

Deputy DSLs (Ongar):

• Caroline 

Policy Reviewed by Brittany V – Manager – 15/05/2025