For the first time, we are working with a social media influencer to reach a younger audience to encourage them to report anything that doesn’t feel right.

The campaign has been developed using extensive insight into how 13 to 24-year-olds want to hear from us, including polling, focus groups and consultation with our Counter Terrorism Youth Advisory Group. 

At the heart of the campaign is Manchester Arena Attack survivor and Gen Z influencer Max Balegde, who has told his personal story of that night for the first time. Our campaign also features conversations between Max and the specialist officers and staff working for Counter Terrorism Policing, about our mission against terrorism.  

Record numbers of young people are being arrested for terrorism related offences, some are in their very early teens. In the year ending December 2019 just four per cent of those arrested were aged under 18, in the same period in 2022 this figure increased to 20 per cent. 

Our new campaign aims to encourage vigilance, empower young people to report anything that doesn’t feel right and also educate them on the signs to spot.

The campaign will run on Instagram @terrorismpolice are also working with @yourpolice.uk a safe space account for teenagers providing advice on a range of issues about crime, antisocial behaviour and policing.

Phase one of the campaign launched on 29 June and sees Max Balegde speaking to Head of Counter Terrorism Policing Matt Jukes around knowing the signs to spot, what to do in the event of an incident and how to report concerns about terrorism.