CONTEST strategy and Lancashire Prevent contacts
Aims and priorities of the CONTEST strategy. Information and guidance on how to report concerns and get advice.
CONTEST strategy
The Government’s counter terrorism strategy, CONTEST, aims to stop people becoming terrorists or supporting extremism. It addresses all forms of terrorism but continues to prioritise according to the threat posed to national security.
It has four key strands, known as the 4 P’s:
- pursue: stopping terrorist attacks
- protect: strengthening protection against terrorist attacks
- prepare: where an attack cannot be stopped, mitigating its impact
- prevent: stopping people becoming terrorists or supporting violent extremism.
Like all local authorities, Blackpool Council has a legal duty to prevent people from being drawn into terrorism under the Counter-Terrorism and Security Act 2015, and works with local partners to protect the public, prevent crime and to promote strong, integrated communities.
If you have concerns about someone and would like more advice:
Local Authority Prevent team
Call: 01253 477477
Email communitysafety@blackpool.gov.uk
Police Prevent Team
Call 01772 413398
If you think a threat is imminent call the police on 999
Alternatively contact the police confidentially on the Anti-terrorist hotline 0800 789 321
You can also go to the ACT Early website, which has information about:
- what Prevent is
- how to spot the signs
- how to stay safe online
- available support and resources
Make a Prevent referral
To make a referral to the Police Prevent team you can download the National Prevent referral form. You must send the completed form to concern@lancashire.police.uk
Any information, advice or concern will be handled with sensitivity and where possible anonymity will be maintained.
Who can make a referral?
Anyone can make a referral, not just a professional. You do not need the consent of the person. They will be asked to consent to Channel if they are assessed as needing Channel support.
The ACT Early website has guidance specifically to help family members and friends.
For more resources, useful information and policy advice, visit the Lancashire Prevent Partnership website
Responsible Event Booking and Venue Hire
Blackpool Council, and its partners, are committed to ensuring that local venues remain safe, inclusive and respectful spaces for all.
The Blackpool Council Responsible Event Booking & Venue Hire Policy has been compiled to assist Local Authority & Community Premises in Blackpool with their hire procedures. Visitors to these venues have the right to enjoy services and facilities without fear of intimidation, harassment, extremist or threatening behaviour. This protocol provides guidance on mitigating the risk and the processes involved in ensuring that defendable and informed decisions are made when hiring out venues.