A Letter to the Editor: Tackling Radicalisation

SIR – Of course parents have a critical role to play in preventing radicalisation and stopping young people from travelling to Syria, but the issue of “blame” is not as simple as many seem to think. Parents cannot be expected to cope alone. Warning signs are often difficult to spot until it is too late. Terrorists use a variety of means to target young people – there is not one single common experience. Some of those drawn in are bright and apparently happy teenagers.

Isil and other groups use social media to manipulate vulnerable young people, drip-feeding them poison while encouraging them to hide their true intentions from their parents. In order to prevent this we need to be alert to subtle changes in children’s behaviour and be aware of who they are talking to online.

Parents tell me that they need more help and advice. Parents, teachers and local authorities all have a responsibility to protect children.

Rather than pointing a finger, we should be encouraging them to talk openly so we can help.

Saleha Jaffer
Founder, Families Against Stress and Trauma