Prevent duty comes into force
Public authorities across the country are now legally required to help stop people becoming involved in terrorism.
Public authorities across the country are now legally required to help stop people becoming involved in terrorism.
The Prevent duty, part of the Governments counter-terrorism strategy, came into force on July 1 as part of the Counter-Terrorism and Security Act 2015 and requires organisations including police, prisons, schools, local authorities, and health bodies to have due regard to preventing people from being drawn into terrorism.
The guidance says Prevent has to be embedded into all aspects of policing, including patrol, neighbourhood and safeguarding functions.
It also notes that officers should consider the full range of investigative and prosecution options available when it comes to disrupting extremist behaviour, including the use of public order powers where appropriate.
The duty will also apply to universities and colleges, but will not affect them until further guidance on extremist speakers has been published.