Talking Terrorism with Young People

News of a terrorist attack is always frightening, but for parents, teachers and those who work with children, there is the added issue of how to discuss these attacks with young people.

This event will bring together academics, teachers, safeguarding specialists, and those who have dealt with consequences of terror attacks to debate issues related to the prevention of terrorism and violent extremism among young people in a safe space.

We will share and discuss best practice around talking about difficult subjects with young people and create a network of support, where ideas and resources will be shared.

In a world that is increasingly shaped by different forms of violent extremism, we will offer a platform for informed and respectful discussion around terrorism. The event will be formed by group discussions, where invited experts will offer their knowledge on how to talk terrorism with young people. The panels will include:

• Dr Raquel da Silva: British Academy Research Fellow at the International Development Department, University of Birmingham

• Debbie Westwood: Head teacher at Christ Church Primary School. She has extensive experience regarding positive practices in safeguarding against violent extremism.

• Figen Murray, Counsellor, who lost her son at the Manchester terror attack last year.
• Sheila Birdi, Director of Safeguarding and Attendance at Washwood Heat Multi Academy Trust.
• Sam Fisher, Director at Wonder Why Society, offering a free, fully moderated, collaborative online learning community for primary school children.
• Nicola Benyahia, Founder of Families for Life, supporting people dealing with radicalised family members. Her son died fighting for the Islamic State.
• Zubeda Limbada, Director at ConnectFutures, a social enterprise delivering training to staff and students on issues around safeguarding against violent extremism.

Participation from the audience will be encouraged with a question and answer session. Refreshments and a light lunch will be provided. 

Please note that this event is now full.

This event is part of the Festival of Social Science which runs from 3-10 November 2018. See what other events are taking place in the College of Social Sciences at the University of Birmingham.