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Spot the signs
There are many factors that can make an individual vulnerable to violent extremism. More important than any one specific sign is the sense that something is not quite right with the person you’re worried about. Parents and family members are best placed to notice any small changes taking place so it’s important to trust your instincts and if you’re worried, reach out for advice. It may be nothing, but if something doesn’t feel right, the sooner you seek help the quicker we can support the person of concern and give them the option for a better pathway.
What are the signs?
There is no single road to violent extremism nor a definitive check list on what to look for.
Changes often occur in people’s identity and behaviour for a number of reasons unrelated to violent extremist interest. Significant shifts in identity are common (especially among teenagers) and are not necessarily a significant problem. Some of the signs below could describe someone on the path towards violent extremism. On the other hand they could also describe the behaviour of someone suffering for a different reason or significant life change or shift.
Learn more
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This short film highlights our efforts and wholistic approach in the countering violent extremism space.
What is Step Together?This short film highlights our efforts and wholistic approach in the countering violent extremism space.
Transcript
(Soft music plays. The video opens with a close up shot of a human eye reflecting images of a computer screen appears. Screen turns black.)
Text on black slide: What is Step Together?
New black slide: Step Together is there to support community members and help overcome the challenge of violent extremism.
Together we seek to overcome all forms of violent extremism so that every person living in NSW feels safe and has a place.
New black slide: NSW is a welcoming and connected society. One which respects the different views, backgrounds and cultures that make us stronger.
New black slide: However, the is a small number of people vulnerable to violent extremist views that need our support.
(Screen changes to a youth is sitting on a bed with a hoodie over their head so their face cannot be seen. Their head is in their hands. The room’s curtains are drawn and a computer can be seen of to the side playing a video.)
Text over images: Step Together is a helpline and digital support service.
(Close up of hands typing on a laptop. They appear to be in a darkened room.)
Text over images: Our focus is early intervention and awareness in the countering violent extremism space.
(Close up of a youth’s head wearing a computer headset. They appear to be in a darkened room.)
Text over images: This environment is forever changing.
(The back of a youth walking alone down a street at night.)
Text over images: If you have concern for someone that may be vulnerable to this influence. Step Together can assist in navigating the landscape and help you start the conversation.
(Screen fades to black before changing to a woman in a bright room during the day speak into a mobile while smiling and nodding supportively)
Text over images: In a safe and confidential space we can connect you with appropriate support services in your community and offer solutions for those you care about, for a better pathway.
(Screen fades to black.)
Text on black slide: Help one. Protect many.
(New black slide with Step Together logo in the centre and NSW government logo in lower left corner)
Text on black slide: Step Together 1800 875 204
www.steptogether.nsw.gov.au
End of transcript.
How can I help?
It may be nothing, but if something doesn’t feel right, the sooner you seek help the quicker we can support you.
Early community action is the key to helping people avoid the path to violent extremism. As a friend, family member, acquaintance, or community worker, you are best placed to identify when those around you may be going down a negative path.
Advice and support
If you would like further advice and support on how best to help someone you care about, contact our Step Together helpline workers.
We acknowledge Aboriginal people as the First Nations Peoples of NSW and pay our respects to Elders past, present, and future.
Informed by lessons of the past, Department of Communities and Justice is improving how we work with Aboriginal people and communities. We listen and learn from the knowledge, strength and resilience of Stolen Generations Survivors, Aboriginal Elders and Aboriginal communities.
You can access our apology to the Stolen Generations.
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