People from outside the university appear to be targeting a student and I am concerned that they may be 'grooming' him.

If you have a good relationship with the student, it could be worth speaking to him personally, so long as this can be done in a genuinely supportive way, without making the student feel suspected or distrusted. This will most likely provide you with reassurance. If there are points of concern, it might throw up those areas where the student could benefit from understanding and support. In addition, now is the time to draw on any relationships you have with community figures or others with experience in the area.

Counter-terrorist practitioners caution that recruiters to violent extremism have become increasingly sophisticated in their 'talent-spotting', selection, grooming and recruitment of vulnerable individuals. A 'talent-spotting' process often takes place in which individuals identify potential recruits at events on the campus. An extended period of contact may ensue; 'vetting' and 'screening' take place, as they have become more wary in the increasingly hostile environment. An unusual degree of interest may be shown in the targeted person's background (such as, whether they may have a criminal record or show a willingness to take major risks). They may be invited to attend other groups or events off campus.

Ensure that there is good pastoral support for this student; if not yourself, whoever has a good relationship with him.

Wherever possible, ensure that the student is supported in particular areas of vulnerability:

- Sound understanding of Islam, through faith community sources or printed materials.
- Social and interpersonal skills to resist manipulation and influence
- Cognitive and critical thinking to challenge propaganda

For the future, you might bear in mind these broader points:

Because destructive influences will often happen through interpersonal contact, often 'below the radar' of university administration, strengthening the resilience of members of the university community and offering support are vital.

- Building trust is extremely important: key academic leaders should form good relationships with student body
- Cultivating relationships with key figures in the Muslim community who can provide expert assessment or reassurance as appropriate is also extremely supportive
- Increasing the capability, confidence, resistance and resilience of students themselves is critical – skills that will aid them throughout life
- These measures are important both as 'prevention' and as a response to problems that arise