What nurseries should know about the Prevent of Duty?
All registered early years providers are to protect children from radicalisation, under the section 26 of the counter terrorism and security act 2015; this is known as the Prevent Duty.
Some early years settings are still unclear on how to promote this within in the setting and since September 2015 Ofsted are now making reference to this in Ofsted inspections.
Some settings are asking the question do they need a separate policy on the prevent of duty?, this is not necessary as long as this is addressed within other polices such as safeguarding polices.
So how can nurseries promote The Prevent Duty in their setting?
As nurseries are already responsible for protecting children, the prevent of duty is about using these existing responsibilities and protect children from radicalisation.
For those working in the early years it is their responsibility to take action when there is concern over a child or families behaviour.
Settings should look at how they are meeting the requirements of The Prevent Duty under the four themes Risk assessment, Working in partnership, Staff training and IT policies
Ofsted inspections will now make reference as to how settings are making arrangements to promote children’s welfare and prevent radicalisation.
What to do if you have a concern
If practitioners have a concern they should follow the settings normal safeguarding procedures. It is best practice to ensure that the designated safeguarding lead officer is involved in the process.
There are other options such as contacting the police. The department for education have a dedicated telephone helpline (020 7340 7264) This helpline can be used for practitioners to raise concerns relating to extremism directly, however this is not to be used in an emergency where a child is at harm, the settings safeguarding procedures should be followed in this situation