Counter-terrorism strategy
Communities
Community Relations in the UK are very good. It is a tribute to all communities that stood united in the face of the attacks in London in July 2005.
Countering the terrorist threat
Countering the terrorist threat and ensuring good community relations are interdependent and we are continuing to work closely with communities to reassure them that law enforcement is appropriate and proportionate.
We work in partnership with communities to develop proposals to tackle the causes of radicalisation and disaffection amongst a minority of our young people. We are also determined to tackle Islamophobia and stamp out extremism and racism wherever it occurs.
About community engagement
Current community engagement work is aimed at structural, economic and ideological factors fuelling disaffection. For more information, please see Preventing Extremism Together.
We are aware that sections of the community are concerned about the use of counter terrorism powers. It is important that we address these concerns to reassure the public that these powers are used appropriately, for the common goal of combating terrorism. One of the ways we have been doing this is through ministerial meetings throughout the country over summer where we have given the community a platform on which to discuss issues of concern. We have also formed Stop and Search Action Team (SSAT) to take work forward to ensure that all stop and search powers are used fairly and appropriately. The SSAT has significant input from the community. It is scrutinised by a Community Panel and is overseen by a Delivery Board evolved from the Lawrence Steering Group sub-group on stop and search.
Working with communities
The government has updated and shortened the guidelines on the needs of faith communities in major emergencies. This is so that those affected are dealt with as sensitively as is possible in the circumstances.
The guidelines provide concise guidance to help local emergency planners and responders understand the specific needs of victims and families from different faith communities in the event of a major incident.
The guidelines cover issues such as personal contact, medical treatment, and death customs.
A range of faith community representative bodies have been consulted about the respective sections, and commissioned contributions from smaller faith communities not previously featured. Emergency planners and responders have also been consulted.
Read the needs of faith communities in major emergencies guidance
