Channel is the multi‑agency safeguarding programme used to protect people at risk of radicalisation. It builds on existing partnerships between local authorities, statutory partners (such as education, health, social care, children’s and youth services, and offender management services), the police and local communities to:
- Identify individuals at risk of radicalisation or involvement in terrorism
- Assess the nature and extent of that risk
- Develop appropriate support plans for those individuals
Channel focuses on safeguarding children and adults through early intervention, addressing vulnerabilities and diverting individuals away from harm.
In Sefton, a multi‑agency Channel Panel—chaired by the local authority—meets monthly to consider referrals. The panel’s role is to agree and coordinate a package of support measures for individuals at risk of radicalisation.