Referral Guidelines for Agencies
We work in partnership with Schools, Law Enforcement, Social Services, Healthcare and Youth Justice agencies. If you suspect a young person from a BME background may be moving towards violence or extremist ideas, please reach out. Early, caring intervention can protect them from harm. Consider referring a youth to us if you observe any of the following risk indicators:
Changes in behaviour: Sudden withdrawal from family or longtime friends, frequent absences, drop in grades or job performance. These can signal social isolation or trouble.
Attitudes and language: Expressing support for violence, hatred of other groups, or praising extremist ideology. Blaming others or venting anger about personal grievances can also be a warning.
Online activity: Spending an increasing amount of time on social media or gaming, especially sharing extreme content or joining secretive online groups. Hesitance to discuss online friends or websites can be a red flag.
Association and gatherings: Hanging out with older peers or gang members, suddenly needing “protection” e.g. claiming to carry a knife for safety. Participation in any group known for violent or radical beliefs.
Emotional changes: Heightened anxiety or stress perhaps after a personal crisis, a desire for identity or purpose, or talking about “wanting change at any cost”. Feelings of injustice or being treated unfairly can make youth vulnerable to extremist messages.
Substance or legal issues: Recent arrests even minor for weapons, drugs or vandalism; injuries from fights or violent incidents; substance abuse problems. These may indicate risk or a cry for help.
Each case is unique. If any combination of these signs concerns you, trust your instincts and refer. Referrals are handled confidentially and respectfully. Our team provides warm, positive support. No shaming or blame and works with families to keep youth safe. Working together across agencies is key: research shows multi-agency efforts improve outcomes for at-risk youth.
Below are tailored notes for each sector:
For Schools
Do you have concerns about one of your student. Thinking they might be struggling with personal issues?
For Law Enforcement
Do you have concerns about a suspect you are processing thinking there may be more in their life than meet the eye?
For Social Services
Are you concerned about one of your youth clients worrying they might be struggling with inner turmoil?
For Healthcare (GPs, Mental Health, A&E)
Are you worried about one of your youth patients thinking they might be undergoing some difficulties?
For Youth Justice
Are you worried about one of your youth clients thinking they might be undergoing some difficulties?