See how Matthew was supported through the Prevent programme. You'll learn about what interventions were put in place to divert him away from radicalisation.
Watch the video to find out more about Matthew's story
Video length - 1 minute 23 seconds
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My teacher must have heard something because she made a referral to the local council.
Mum received a phone call from the local council because they were concerned about me. Mum agreed to a home visit from them. This is when mum found the armband and mum and martin freaked out. Later on, mum agreed that I should meet an “Intervention Provider” called Alex. I thought I’d hate it, but Alex was cool. He was like a mentor. He listened to what I had to say, and didn’t judge me.
Alex has helped me deal with my anger. I realised I was blaming foreigners and immigrants for all of my problems. I don’t know what I might have done if Alex hadn’t got involved.
Me and my mum get on much better now. Alex and my mum are helping me work towards joining the Army. It still might not work out, I reckon if it doesn’t I could be an engineer, which would be pretty good.
Alex helped me figure out that I didn’t need to be scared all the time. I even told him about being self-conscious about my weight and he helped me get a Gym membership. I’m way more confident about how I look now. Me and Martin sometimes go to the gym together. He’s alright you know.
Rob sent me messages for a while but I told him I’m not interested. I hang out with my family instead now, we’ve even started doing Sunday roasts again.
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