Lucy Evans and Andy Barnaby with Public Services students who attended the session.
We are working with Barnsley Council to deliver Prevent workshops, helping students and young people stay safe and make informed choices about potential risks in today’s world.
Led by Andy Barnaby, the Council’s Cohesion and Prevent Officer, the workshops are designed to help students recognise and respond to risks of radicalisation, as well as understand how to protect themselves and others from harm.
“These workshops are about more than just raising awareness—they help our students understand how to make positive, safe choices.”
Government figures show that 6,922 Prevent referrals were made in the year ending March 2024, a 1.5% increase compared to the previous year. Young people aged 16 to 17 accounted for 13% of these referrals, highlighting the importance of education and support for this age group.
With many young people spending more time online, they can face risks such as exposure to extremist content and other harmful influences. These workshops give students practical tools to stay safe and build confidence in making decisions that protect themselves and others.
Lucy Evans, Cultural Capital and Personal Development Coordinator at the College, who worked with Andy to organise the sessions, said: “These workshops are about more than just raising awareness—they help our students understand how to make positive, safe choices.
“By working with Barnsley Council, we’re giving students the skills they need to thrive in a supportive, inclusive environment.”
The workshops are expected to reach hundreds of students at the College in the coming months, helping to create a stronger, more united community in Barnsley.
Andy Barnaby, Cohesion and Prevent Officer, added: “Educating students about the risks of radicalisation, the threats posed by extremist content online, and how to speak up to safeguard those who may be vulnerable is crucial.
“This training delivers vital messages, equipping students with knowledge about the Prevent Programme while addressing the growing concern of young people being drawn into this space.
“It also reinforces the strong partnership between the Council and the College in working together to protect and support students.”
Through this initiative, we aim to empower students and young people to stay informed, safe, and resilient in an ever-changing world.
(L-R) Lucy Evans, Barnsley College Cultural Capital and Personal Development Coordinator, Andy Barnaby, Barnsley Council’s Cohesion and Prevent Officer and Catherine Hirst, Barnsley College Talent United and Enterprise Coordinator outside the Barnsley Town Hall.
Last updated: 10th December 2024
Originally posted on: 10th December 2024