Christian Today reports – Nearly 2,000 children have been referred to the UK government’s deradicalisation scheme, according to the BBC.
The statistics from the National Police Chief’s Council (NPCC) show 1,839 children under the age of 15 were referred to the “Channel” scheme from January 2012 to December 2015. The programme is designed to lead people away from extremism.
Out of this figure, 415 were under the age of 10.
The numbers, which were obtained by a freedom of information request, show referrals are rising each year.
The government says the programme, which is part of a wider anti-terrorism strategy, has been successful in deradicalising participants. However one parent told the BBC that the scheme stigmatises Muslims.
“A teacher’s job is to teach children and not to spy on children,” said Ifhat Shaheen. Her son was taken to one side in class after mentioning the word “eco-terrorists” and asked if he was affiliated with ISIS.
“Schools are meant to be a safe place where you can have open dialogue and discussion,” she said.
“It’s really heart-breaking to hear that young Muslim children are being criminalised in this way for the wrong reasons and an overreaction. It stigmatises Muslims.” … Read more