A NEW Government-supported hotline to counter radicalisation has been backed by the region's police and crime commissioner.

The NSPCC (National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children) has launched a dedicated advice service for parents worried about young people forming extreme views.

The anti-terror measure, which involves input from the Home Office, has won the support of West Mercia PCC John Campion, who says it will be a useful tool in tackling concerns.

"Anything that helps us in the fight against the radicalisation of young people is a good thing," he said.

"Across the force area we do live in a very safe society, but anything that supports people in this way I see as very positive."

The NSPCC says it decided to start up the new, free 24-hour service after the spate of terror attacks across Europe.

The service is the first national point of support to parents who might be concerned about their children being radicalised, or who need advice about the wider impact of terrorism.

Until now the only route for adults to pass on concern and information was via Government agencies like MI5 or police anti-terror hotlines.

A rota of NSPCC counsellors have been trained to spot the warning signs of radicalisation by Home Office experts, so they can advise adults who are worried about a child being groomed to commit an atrocity.

The move has also won the support of leading Muslims in Worcester.

Councillor Allah Ditta said: "I never hear of anything abnormal in Worcester but of course you can get isolated cases of concern anywhere that the authorities have to deal with.

"If this gives parents extra support, to go and report anything they are concerned about then it's good."

Nasrul Islam, from Worcester Islamic Association, said: "It sounds like a good idea - if any parents ever have any concerns it's nice to know they have someone they can contact."

Peter Wanless, from NSPCC, said: “We have seen a wave of terrorist attacks in recent weeks and months, and both parents and children tell us how frightened they are by what is happening.

"So it is vital that we are here for parents when they need our support, and are able to provide them with non-judgemental advice on issues ranging from the wider terrorist threat to the dangers of radicalisation."

The NSPCC helpline is 0808 800 5000.