E-learning: Understanding and Addressing Extremism in Prisons and Probation

Her Majesty's Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS)

Type of Organisation: Governmental institution

This resource has been developed for all HMPPS staff working with extremist offenders — especially those considered vulnerable to extremism.

The two-part e-learning package can be accessed on the internet. The training comprises two courses, ‘Understanding and Addressing Extremism in Prisons and Probation’ and ‘Developing Dialogues Toolkit Training’. Each course comprises two modules, each of which includes a final knowledge check at the end. Learners are required to score a minimum of 80 % to pass each e-learning course.

Each module may take up to one hour to complete. Users can stop and save their progress if they are unable to complete a module in its entirety, and may return to it later. We would recommend that when possible you complete each module in one sitting to optimise learning. It can be used a refresher for staff who have had face-to-face DD training. The e-learning enabled us to reach a larger number if staff.

Methodology used

The tool was designed to enable staff to build their confidence and competence when responding to concerns about extremism.

It seeks to provide staff working in prisons and probation with an understanding of the reasons why individuals engage in extremism and commit extremist offences, and to introduce skills and strategies for countering / responding to extremism in their roles.

For staff in relevant roles, there are also modules to develop an understanding of the concepts underpinning the Developing Dialogues (DD) Toolkit and how it should be delivered. Developing Dialogues (DD) is used with individuals for whom concerns have arisen over their possible or apparent interest in, or engagement with, ideas, groups or causes deemed extremist in nature.

It is based on the psycho-social theories underlying extremism interventions and assessments.

Relation to initiatives / theory

The first part of the course was developed from scratch. The second part is based on a face-to-face DD training event. The training was developed in conjunction with the learning and development team within the HMPPS, which is specialised in the development of training packages.

Target audience / beneficiaries

All HMPPS staff in roles that put them face-to-face with offenders, but especially those working with those considered vulnerable to extremism / radicalisation and those members of staff in extremism roles. It has been designed to enable staff to build their confidence and competence in responding to extremism concerns.

Staff have to completed ASPECTS (prison staff) or WRAP 3 (Probation staff) face-to-face extremism awareness training before they complete this training.

Online course

Hannah [dot] thompsonnoms [dot] gsi [dot] gov [dot] uk (Email)