This approach involves raising awareness among first-line practitioners working with vulnerable individuals or groups at risk of radicalisation in order to ensure that they are well equipped to detect and to respond to signs of potential or imminent radicalisation. Training for first-line practitioners should empower the professional to act when signs of radicalisation are present. Therefore, training should be centred around their role, responsibilities and competences. Throughout Europe, training courses have been put in place to raise awareness and understanding among first-liners with responsibility for individuals who may be vulnerable to radicalisation, leading to violent extremism or terrorism. First-line workers who can make an important contribution include teachers, youth workers, community police officers, child protection workers and (mental) health care workers. In contrast to policy-makers, for example, first-line workers are able to – potentially – recognise and refer individuals who may be vulnerable or who are showing signs of actual radicalisation. However, they do not always have a sufficient understanding of processes of radicalisation, are not able to assess the warning signs, or do not know the best way to respond. For example, there can be a lack of the correct conversational techniques, reporting skills or experience of working in a multi-agency setting. Awareness-raising and investing in the competences of first-line workers is therefore needed. The RAN Community of Practitioners recently stressed that training on radicalisation for first-line practitioners should be training that can be applied to their professional role, in the professional setting. Hence, both personal biases and attitudes as well as the professional partners and settings, should be addressed.
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