Tolerance, Anti-Extremism & PREVENT Policy

Introduction

Brick Lane Jamme Masjid is committed to promoting an atmosphere of tolerance, respect, and inclusion in accordance with the values of Islam and the broader principles of British society. It recognises the importance of combating extremism and radicalisation, which pose a threat to individuals, communities, and national security.

As part of our duty under the PREVENT Strategy and in line with the Counter-Terrorism and Security Act 2015, we are committed to taking steps to safeguard individuals from being drawn into extremism and violence. We will actively promote mutual respect, understanding, and tolerance of different beliefs and perspectives, reflecting the masjid's mission to serve the community and uphold the values of peace and unity.

This policy outlines the Brick Lane Jamme Masjid's approach to preventing extremism, promoting tolerance, and complying with the Prevent Duty while safeguarding individuals from radicalisation.

Objectives of the Policy

The objectives of this policy are to:

• Ensure that Brick Lane Jamme Masjid provides a safe, inclusive environment free from extremist influences.
• Promote the Islamic values of peace, tolerance, and respect for all individuals, regardless of race, ethnicity, or religious belief.
• Provide a clear framework for identifying and responding to concerns related to radicalisation and extremism.
• Establish a supportive, non-judgmental approach to addressing concerns about individuals at risk of being drawn into extremism or radicalisation.
• Ensure compliance with the PREVENT Duty as part of the Counter-Terrorism and Security Act 2015.
• Promote interfaith and intercultural dialogue to foster social cohesion and understanding.

Definitions

Extremism. Extremism is defined as the advocacy, support, or use of violence to achieve ideological, religious, or political objectives. This includes the promotion of hatred, discrimination, or violence towards individuals or groups based on their race, religion, or beliefs. Extremism can be expressed through both violent and non-violent means.

Radicalisation. Radicalisation is the process by which an individual or group adopts extreme political, social, or religious views that could lead to violence or harm to others. It often involves a shift in attitudes towards using violence as a means of achieving a particular ideological, religious, or political goal.

PREVENT. PREVENT is one of the four strands of the UK government's Counter-Terrorism Strategy (CONTEST). Its purpose is to stop people from becoming radicalised and engaging in terrorist activities by intervening early and providing support to individuals at risk.

Roles and Responsibilities

Masjid Management and Trustees. The masjid management and trustees will:

• Ensure that the masjid complies with all aspects of the PREVENT Duty under the Counter-Terrorism and Security Act 2015.
• Appoint a Prevent Lead Officer to oversee the implementation of the Prevent strategy within the masjid.
• Ensure that appropriate training and awareness-raising activities are provided for all staff, volunteers, and trustees regarding extremism, radicalisation, and the PREVENT duty.
• Ensure that the masjid community is fully informed about the importance of promoting tolerance, understanding, and non-violent expressions of religious beliefs.
• Create and maintain a safe environment that actively discourages extremist views or behaviours.
• Regularly review and update this policy to ensure its effectiveness and relevance.

Prevent Lead Officer. The Prevent Lead Officer is responsible for:

• Act as the primary point of contact for PREVENT-related matters within the masjid.
• Monitor and implement preventative measures to safeguard individuals from radicalisation.
• Liaise with external agencies, including local authorities, police, and safeguarding bodies, when required.
• Offer support and guidance to individuals identified as being at risk of radicalisation.
• Maintain confidential records of any incidents, concerns, or interventions related to extremism or radicalisation.

Employees & Volunteers. Employees and volunteers will:

• Be vigilant and aware of signs of radicalisation or extremist views among masjid attendees.
• Report any concerns regarding extremism or radicalisation to the Prevent Lead Officer.
• Participate in PREVENT training and awareness sessions to better understand how to recognise and respond to extremism.
• Promote tolerance, respect, and inclusivity in their work, interactions, and activities within the masjid.

Members & Visitors.

• All members and visitors to the masjid are encouraged to adhere to the values of respect, tolerance, and mutual understanding.
• They are encouraged to report any concerns about extremist or radical behaviour to masjid staff or trustees.

Preventative Measures

Promoting Tolerance and Respect.

• The masjid will provide regular educational programs that promote Islamic values of tolerance, peace, and respect for others, including interfaith dialogue and cooperation.
• The masjid will support community cohesion by engaging in local interfaith and community activities to foster better relationships between different religious, cultural, and ethnic groups.
• Speakers and guest lecturers will be selected carefully to ensure that they reflect the values of tolerance, peace, and non-violence, in line with the masjid's mission.

Raising Awareness.

• Regular awareness-raising sessions on the dangers of extremism and radicalisation will be provided to all staff, volunteers, and members of the masjid community.
• Information about the signs of radicalisation and how to report concerns will be made available through noticeboards, handouts, and discussions during masjid events.

Identifying and Supporting Individuals. Staff and volunteers will be trained to recognise signs of radicalisation and extremism, such as:

• Expressing views that promote violence or harm.
• Isolation from family, friends, or the community.
• Unreasonable anger towards specific groups or ideologies.

Early intervention and support will be provided for individuals identified as being at risk of radicalisation, in collaboration with appropriate external support agencies, including social services and local police.

Partnering with External Agencies.

• The masjid will work closely with local authorities, police, schools, and other community groups to ensure a joined-up approach to preventing extremism and supporting vulnerable individuals.
• The masjid will adhere to guidance and referrals as part of the local Channel Panel, a multi-agency approach to protecting individuals at risk of radicalisation.

Educational Programmes and Activities.

• The masjid will offer educational programs that challenge extremist narratives and promote alternative, peaceful viewpoints grounded in Islamic teachings.
• Regular workshops will be held to teach youth and community members about the dangers of extremism and the importance of peace, tolerance, and social cohesion.

Responding to Concerns

Reporting Concerns.

• Any concerns about extremism or radicalisation should be reported to the Prevent Lead Officer, who will assess the concern and determine the appropriate response.
• If a serious threat is identified, the Prevent Lead Officer will take immediate steps to involve relevant authorities (e.g., the police or local safeguarding authorities).
• All concerns will be treated with sensitivity, confidentiality, and in line with safeguarding policies.

Confidentiality. Any reports or concerns about radicalisation will be handled confidentially and with discretion. Information will only be shared with external agencies when necessary and appropriate, in accordance with the masjid's safeguarding policy.

Action Plan.

• Once a concern has been raised, the Prevent Lead Officer will develop an action plan, which may include referring individuals to appropriate support services, offering one-on-one support, or engaging in dialogue to understand the individual's views and concerns.
• Regular monitoring will be conducted to ensure that appropriate interventions are effective and that individuals are supported throughout the process.

Training and Awareness

Staff and Volunteer Training.

• All staff and volunteers will undergo regular training on the PREVENT Duty, including identifying signs of radicalisation, responding to concerns, and maintaining an environment of tolerance and respect.
• Training will also include understanding how to manage challenging behaviours and engage with individuals at risk of radicalisation in a non-confrontational manner.

Community Engagement.

• Community members will be encouraged to engage in regular discussions about extremism, its effects, and how to protect themselves and others from radicalisation.
• The masjid will facilitate workshops and training for the wider community to raise awareness about the PREVENT strategy and foster greater understanding of the importance of tolerance and inclusion.

Monitoring and Review

• The masjid will regularly monitor and review the effectiveness of this policy and the actions taken to prevent extremism and radicalisation. This includes evaluating the outcomes of interventions and adjusting the strategy if necessary.
• The policy will be reviewed annually to ensure it remains relevant, and any changes to legislation or local procedures will be incorporated into the masjid's practices.

Conclusion

Brick Lane Jamme Masjid is dedicated to maintaining a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all its members. This Tolerance, Anti-Extremism, and PREVENT Policy demonstrates the Masjid's commitment to preventing radicalisation, challenging extremist views, and promoting peace and tolerance in the community. Through education, early intervention, and collaboration with external agencies, we aim to protect vulnerable individuals and ensure that our masjid remains a safe space for everyone.