Guidance: User guide to: Individuals referred to Prevent

This guide explains what it means to be referred to and supported through the Prevent Programme in England and Wales. It covers who is involved, what support is available, how the process works, and where to find the official user guide.

Guidance: User guide to: Individuals referred to Prevent is an official Home Office publication, released on 6 August 2026. It explains what happens when someone is referred to and supported through the Prevent Programme in England and Wales. This guide is for individuals who have been referred, their families, and the professionals who work with them.

At a glance

• Publication date: 6 August 2026
• Publisher: Home Office (GOV.UK)
• Geographic scope: England and Wales
• Content: Referral process, support options, rights, complaints

What Is the User Guide to Individuals Referred to Prevent?

The user guide is a Home Office document that explains the Prevent Programme, part of the UK’s counter-terrorism strategy. It is written for people who have been referred to Prevent and for those who support them.

It describes the referral process, the types of support available, and the rights of the individual. It also explains how to raise concerns or complain if you are not happy with the process.

The guide is specific to England and Wales. It does not cover Scotland or Northern Ireland.

This guide is not a legal document. It is a practical explanation, written in plain language so everyone can understand it. If you need more detail, you can ask the professional who referred you or contact the Home Office.

Who Is This Guide For?

This guide is for anyone who has been referred to Prevent, or who knows someone who has. That includes:

• Individuals who have been referred
• Parents and guardians
• Carers and family members
• Professionals such as teachers, social workers, and healthcare staff

The guide helps you understand what to expect and how to get support. It is also useful for community leaders and faith groups who may support individuals through the process.

If you are a professional, the guide can help you explain the process to the person you are supporting. It gives you a shared reference point.

What Support Is Available Through Prevent?

The Prevent Programme offers support to individuals who are considered at risk of being drawn into terrorism. The support is voluntary and confidential. It may include:

• One-to-one mentoring
• Psychological support
• Education and training
• Family support

The exact support depends on the individual’s needs. The user guide explains how this support is arranged and who provides it.

Support is tailored. It is not a one-size-fits-all programme. A trained mentor may help you understand your concerns. A psychologist may help with mental health issues. Family support can help your loved ones understand what you are going through.

All support is confidential. This means that what you share with your support worker is not shared without your consent, except in very rare cases where there is a serious risk of harm.

Key Dates and Deadlines for Individuals Referred to Prevent

The user guide was published on 6 August 2026. There is no application deadline because this is not a funding or scholarship opportunity. It is a guidance document.

If you have been referred to Prevent, you may be contacted by a local authority or police officer. The guide explains the timeline of what happens after a referral.

Typically, after a referral, a panel meets to decide if support is needed. This is called a Channel panel. The panel includes professionals from different agencies. You may be invited to attend the panel meeting. You can bring someone with you for support.

The timeline can vary. Some cases are resolved quickly. Others may take longer. The guide gives you a general idea of what to expect, but your case may be different.

How to Access the User Guide for Individuals Referred to Prevent

You can read the user guide on GOV.UK. It is available for free. You do not need to register or provide personal details.

If you need help understanding the guide, you can contact the Home Office. The guide may also be available in other formats, such as Easy Read or large print. Check the GOV.UK page for updates.

You can also ask a professional, such as a social worker or teacher, to help you access the guide. They can print it for you or read it with you.

If you have a visual impairment or other disability, you can request an accessible version. The GOV.UK page usually has contact details for accessibility requests.

Tips for Individuals Referred to Prevent and Their Families

If you or someone you know is referred to Prevent, here are some practical tips:

1. Read the user guide carefully. It explains your rights and the process.
2. Ask questions. You can ask the person who referred you for more information.
3. Seek independent advice. You can contact a solicitor or an advocacy service.
4. Keep a record of all communications and meetings.
5. Remember that support is voluntary. You can choose whether to accept it.

These tips are general advice and apply to any similar process.

It is also helpful to talk to someone you trust. This could be a family member, friend, or faith leader. They can provide emotional support.

Do not be afraid to ask for a second opinion. You can ask to speak to a different professional if you do not feel comfortable with the one assigned to you.

Keep a diary of how you are feeling. This can help you explain your experience to professionals and to your support network.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Dealing with Prevent Referrals

There are some common mistakes that individuals and families make when going through the Prevent process. Avoiding them can make the process smoother.

• Do not ignore letters or calls. Respond promptly to any communication from the local authority or police.
• Do not assume you have to accept support. You have a choice, but it is important to understand the consequences of declining.
• Do not go to meetings alone if you feel uncomfortable. You can bring a friend, family member, or advocate.
• Do not share personal information without understanding why it is needed. Ask questions.
• Do not miss deadlines for responding to requests. If you need more time, ask for it.

These mistakes can cause delays or misunderstandings. The user guide can help you avoid them.

How to Prepare for a Channel Panel Meeting

If you are invited to a Channel panel meeting, preparation is key. Here is what you can do:

1. Read the user guide again. Focus on the sections about the panel.
2. Write down any questions you have. Bring them to the meeting.
3. Think about what you want to say. You can prepare a short statement.
4. Decide if you want to bring someone for support. This could be a family member, friend, or advocate.
5. Arrive early. Give yourself time to settle.

The panel is there to help you. They want to understand your situation and offer support. You are not on trial. You are there to discuss your needs.

You can ask for a break if you feel overwhelmed. You can also ask for a private meeting with one of the panel members.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Prevent Programme?

The Prevent Programme is part of the UK’s counter-terrorism strategy. It aims to stop people from becoming terrorists or supporting terrorism. The user guide explains how it works for individuals referred to it.

Who can be referred to Prevent?

Anyone in England or Wales can be referred if there are concerns that they may be at risk of radicalisation. Referrals can come from family, friends, or professionals. The user guide provides more detail.

Is Prevent support voluntary?

Yes, support through Prevent is voluntary. You can choose whether to accept it. The user guide explains your rights.

Where can I find the user guide?

You can find the user guide on the GOV.UK website.

What happens after I am referred to Prevent?

After a referral, a panel of professionals will review your case. This is called a Channel panel. They will decide if you need support. You may be invited to a meeting. The user guide explains this process in detail.

Can I refuse support from Prevent?

Yes, you can refuse support. However, the panel may still monitor your case for a while. It is important to understand the reasons for the referral and the potential consequences of refusing help.

Will my information be kept confidential?

Yes, your information is kept confidential. It is only shared with professionals who need to know to provide support. There are rare exceptions if there is a serious risk of harm.

Can I complain about the Prevent process?

Yes, you can complain. The user guide explains how to raise concerns. You can also contact the Home Office directly or seek independent advice.

Does the user guide cover Scotland or Northern Ireland?

No, the user guide covers England and Wales only. Scotland and Northern Ireland have their own arrangements.

Before you apply

If you or someone you know is referred to Prevent, the first step is to read the official user guide. It will help you understand the process and your rights. You can access the guide here. If you have questions, contact the Home Office or seek independent advice.

Photo by Vitaly Gariev on Pexels

Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.