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. It sounds so simple but sometimes just listening is all it takes to help someone you care about. 

By listening without judgement, you can help someone feel accepted and find a sense of belonging. As a friend, family member, acquaintance or community worker, you are best placed to identify when those around you are vulnerable to violent influence.

Stay connected

Encouraging open and healthy discussions creates a positive environment and diverts people away from the dangers of extremism. Staying connected is one of the most effective ways to help prevent and reduce violent behaviour, even if you disagree with their choices.

How can I better connect with people I am concerned about?

Below are some ways you can better connect with people you are concerned about:

• Bring concerns out into the open: Create an environment where healthy discussion is encouraged and people feel comfortable to express their ideas. This reduces the need for them to take their beliefs ‘underground’ and seek connection from groups that support violence.
  • You may not connect with them on your first attempt and you may need to find new ways to encourage them to open up. Don’t only talk about the behaviour that is bothering you. Keep discussing the everyday things you’ve always enjoyed chatting about together.

• Help people have their say: Many of us have ideas about what changes we’d like to see in our society, but it can be hard to know how to make them happen. If someone is pushing for social, political or ideological change, remind them there are positive ways to do it. Connect them to people or organisations that can help them bring about change without the use of violence.
  

• Model respectful debate in person and online: Listen to what the person has to say, and set boundaries about how you talk to each other. End the conversation if the situation becomes inflamed, but let them know you will be ready to talk again when everyone is calm. Likewise, demonstrate respectful online interactions.

• Encourage critical thinking: Remind people that they are in control of what they watch or read, and that it is ok to question information. Your goal should not be to stop people from accessing content you don’t approve of. Highlight different sources and perspectives, and have them examine the content they engage with.

• Link them to support: Step Together’s helpline support workers can refer you to local support organisations or practitioners who can help address issues of concern for the person. It may be they could benefit from a local youth group, employment service, or a mental/physical health service.

If you’ve noticed a significant change in someone’s behaviour, reach out for help as soon as possible. Our Step Together helpline support workers can listen to your concerns and talk through next steps.