Prevent referrals for children reach record 6,085 amid concern over online extremism
A record 6,085 children under 18 were referred to the government’s Prevent programme in 2025, amid growing concern about young people’s exposure to extremism and violent content online. The figures show referrals have nearly tripled since 2020, while new categories capture cases involving fascination with extreme violence even when no political cause is identified.
National Police Chiefs’ Council figures recorded 39 referrals linked to extreme violence, 19 to mass casualty attacks and 15 to school massacres. Online influence was cited in more than 1,700 cases, and gaming in 58; referrals also involved conflicts including Israel and Palestine, Iran and Ukraine. Conservative politicians called for stronger action on online radicalisation, while the article notes previous reviews criticised Prevent’s handling of cases involving Axel Rudakubana and Ali Harbi Ali.
In short
- Prevent referrals for children reached 6,085 in 2025.
- Online influence was recorded in more than 1,700 cases.
- New categories include fascination with mass casualty attacks.
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The case for
Supporters of stronger Prevent intervention argue that the sharp rise in referrals and cases involving extreme violence show a need to identify children at risk before they harm themselves or others. They see online material and gaming environments as potential routes to radicalisation, and believe early, proportionate support can protect children and communities while allowing police and safeguarding services to respond to warning signs.
The case against
Those cautious about expanding Prevent argue that referrals are not proof of extremist intent, and that broadening the categories to include fascination with violence risks drawing more children into a security system without a clear political motive or threat. They stress the importance of safeguarding civil liberties, avoiding stigma and ensuring decisions are evidence-based, especially given previous criticism of how the programme handled high-profile cases.
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Originally published by Daily Mail as “Record 6,000 children are referred to Prevent as obsession with violence and extremism surges”.