Startling new figures show a record number of individuals aged 60 and above have been referred to the UK government's anti-terrorism Prevent programme, marking a significant shift in counter-terrorism efforts.
Unprecedented Rise in Older Referrals
The latest statistics reveal that 1,117 people in their sixties were flagged to the counter-extremism scheme in the year ending March 2023 - a dramatic 22% increase from the previous year. This represents the highest number since records began in 2015.
Changing Demographics of Concern
While the majority of Prevent referrals still involve younger age groups, security experts note this emerging trend among older adults raises important questions:
- Potential radicalisation through online platforms
- Increased vulnerability to extremist narratives during retirement
- Changing patterns of extremist targeting
National Picture of Prevent Referrals
Overall, Prevent saw 6,817 referrals in 2022-23, with concerning statistics showing:
- 1 in 5 cases involved right-wing extremism concerns
- Islamist-related concerns accounted for 28% of referrals
- Mental health was a factor in 51% of cases
Government Response
A Home Office spokesperson stated: "Prevent remains a vital tool in safeguarding vulnerable individuals from all forms of radicalisation. The increase in older referrals demonstrates our commitment to protecting all age groups."
Security analysts suggest the data may reflect both improved awareness among professionals and genuine changes in extremist recruitment tactics across different demographics.
