What is the Prevent duty?
The WEA is committed to safeguarding all learners and stakeholders from the risks of radicalisation and extremism. In line with our responsibilities under the Prevent duty, we actively work to identify and reduce these risks, ensuring individuals are not drawn into terrorism or influenced by extremist political, social, or religious ideologies.
Our approach is proactive, inclusive, and rooted in promoting a safe and supportive learning environment for all.
Our vision and values as an organisation commit us to promote:
- Democracy
- The rule of law
- Individual liberty
- Mutual respect, and tolerance (For the many cultures, faiths and beliefs found in Britain today)
In doing so we aim to:
- Create safe learning environments
- Training staff to spot signs of radicalisation
- Encouraging open discussions about controversial topics in a respectful way
- To recognise and explore both the benefits and the challenges of the rule of law
- Supporting learners to understand and appreciate diversity
These are the values, defined by the government, as British values and are part of the Prevent Duty.
Our approach in the WEA is to integrate the Prevent Duty
We do this with:
- Good teaching and learning,
- Encouraging learners to engage critically and actively around their study,
- Promoting our values, mission and purpose,
- Ensuring that equality, diversity and inclusion are embedded in everything we do,
- Encourage learners to become members of the WEA, be active citizens, and contribute to their communities.
This approach not only meets the legal requirements of the Prevent Duty but also strengthens the WEA’s mission to empower adults through education.
Recognising a concern
The WEA encourages anyone to raise concerns in relation to the Prevent Duty, such as:
- Concerns about individuals being groomed- For example, if someone appears to be influenced or manipulated by others into adopting extremist views or behaviours, or
- Concerns about fundamentalist beliefs- Especially when these beliefs lead to oppressive behaviours, intolerance, or support for terrorist ideologies.
