Prevent duty

The prevent duty, which came into force for universities in September 2015 as part of the Counter-Terrorism and Security Act 2015, places legal requirements on the university to minimise the risk of individuals being drawn into terrorism and to ensure vulnerable individuals receive timely and appropriate support. The university therefore needs to be able to demonstrate that we have appropriate processes and policies in place to comply with the duty.

The university’s response to the prevent duty is guided by our institutional values of inclusiveness, integrity and community and our commitment to ensure that everyone on campus is treated fairly, with dignity and respect, and in a supportive and welcoming environment.

We are committed to maintaining an inclusive and supportive environment where all members of the university community are encouraged to engage in debate and to pursue both academic and non-academic interests. At the heart of this, we will continue to encourage a culture whereby all members of the university community feel involved and socially included in university life and support others to do the same. We consider this the most effective means of reducing the likelihood of individuals becoming isolated and vulnerable.

Prevent duty guidance

The statutory guidance for higher education institutions highlights key areas of attention. These are:

• External speakers;

• Partnerships with other local organisations engaged with Prevent;

• Risk assessment and action plan;

• Staff training;

• Welfare and pastoral care/chaplaincy support;

• IT policies;

• Students' Union and societies.

Compliance with the duty

The university has approved the following policies and procedures in the light of the latest government guidance:

• Code of practice on freedom of speech

• Policy on speakers and events

• Causes for concern policy

• ICT acceptable use policy

• Security sensitive research policy

• Prevent duty and safeguarding policy

• Safeguarding children and working with vulnerable adults policy

Contacts

Any non-urgent concerns regarding an individual's welfare should be directed to counselling@amity.ac.uk.