"Prevent" has multiple meanings depending on context:
- As a general verb, to "prevent" means to stop something from happening or to keep someone or something from doing something. It involves taking action in advance to avoid an event or outcome. For example, seatbelts prevent serious injuries in car accidents, or bad weather prevented people from leaving
- In the UK government context, "Prevent" is a specific counter-terrorism strategy and statutory duty aimed at stopping people from becoming terrorists or supporting terrorism. It is part of the national CONTEST strategy and focuses on safeguarding individuals and communities from radicalisation and violent extremism through early intervention and support. Prevent works with individuals and communities to challenge extremist ideologies and provide help to those at risk
In summary, "prevent" generally means to stop or hinder something from occurring, while "Prevent" (capitalized) refers to the UK government's program to counter terrorism by safeguarding people from radicalisation.
