Prevent and Protect are key elements of the UK’s CONTEST counter-terrorism strategy, which aims to reduce the risk of terrorism and keep communities safe. Prevent focuses on safeguarding individuals who may be vulnerable to radicalisation, while Protect works to strengthen security and improve resilience against potential terrorist threats. This page provides information on the aims and priorities of the CONTEST strategy, along with guidance on accessing advice and support.
CONTEST strategy
The government’s counter terrorism strategy, CONTEST, aims to stop people becoming terrorists or supporting extremism. It addresses all forms of terrorism but continues to prioritise according to the threat posed to national security.
It has four key strands, known as the 4 P’s:
- Pursue: stopping terrorist attacks
- Protect: strengthening protection against terrorist attacks
- Prepare: where an attack cannot be stopped, mitigating its impact
- Prevent: stopping people becoming terrorists or supporting violent extremism
Like all local authorities, we have a legal duty to prevent people from being drawn into terrorism under the Counter-Terrorism and Security Act 2015.
We work with local partners to protect the public, prevent crime and to promote strong, integrated communities.
Visit GOV.UK to find out more about contest
Lancashire Prevent contacts
If you have concerns about someone and would like more advice:
Local Authority Prevent team
- Phone: 01254 585 260
- Email: Prevent.Team@Blackburn.gov.uk
Police Prevent Team
- Phone: 01772 413398
If you think a threat is imminent call the police on 999
Alternatively contact the police confidentially on the Anti-terrorist hotline: 0800 789 321
You can also go to the ACT Early website, which has information about:
- what Prevent is
- how to spot the signs
- how to stay safe online
- available support and resources
You can call the ACT Early Support Line on 0800 011 3764.
Make a Prevent referral
To make a referral to the Counter-terrorism Policing team you can download the National Prevent referral form
You must send the completed form to concern@lancashire.police.uk
AI must not be used to complete the Prevent Referral Form.
Any information, advice or concern will be handled with sensitivity and where possible anonymity will be maintained.
Who can make a referral?
Anyone can make a referral, not just a professional. You do not need the consent of the person. They will be asked to consent to Channel if they are assessed as needing Channel support.
The ACT Early website has guidance specifically to help family members and friends.
For more resources, useful information and policy advice, visit the Lancashire Prevent Partnership website