The project focussed on the evaluation of a Prevent training programme for parenting practitioners and other professional working with children in Tower Hamlets.

The main aim of the study was to understand if the training was an effective way of improving knowledge and skills relating to child protection and violent extremism and whether practitioners had implemented their learning in their work.

Context

The training was developed in response to the ‘mainstreaming’ of the Prevent agenda in educational institutions, meaning that aspects of the Prevent agenda have become a part of these institutions statutory duty, and the recognition that the filed of preventing violent extremism is complex and highly sensitive and that many practitioners have insufficient knowledge of the issues involved. 

Objectives

The Study had three main aims: 

• To understand how effective the training was in increasing knowledge and skills relating to the prevention of violent extremism
• To ascertain to what extent the training resulted in attendees changing their day to practice to incorporate this greater understanding
• To make recommendations for how future training to be improved to better achieve the aims set out above.

  

Methodology

We adopted a mixed methods approach for this evaluation comprising interviews with key providers and commissioners, a pre and post questionnaire for attendees, direct observation of two training sessions and follow up focus groups with attendees a short period after the training to see if practitioners had incorporated any learning into their practice. 

Results

Our research found that the training was popular with participants, particular due to the time and space it afforded for participants and trainers to discuss sensitive issues associated with the topic. Participants also reported significantly improved knowledge and understanding of the Prevent agenda. There were more mixed results as to whether training had increased practitioners confidence to intervene concerning situations however it was felt to be a good first step in that direction.