The Government has launched a new £5m fund to help councils promote social cohesion and tackle violent extremism. Secretary of state, Ruth Kelly, launched the ‘Preventing violent extremism pathfinder fund' on Tuesday, which will help local authorities develop projects designed at tackling violent extremism. ‘This new, more local approach will help reach directly into communities to support the law-abiding majority of Muslims in tackling the false and pernicious ideology spread by extremists,' said Ms Kelly. ‘In the past, the Government has relied too much on engagement with traditional leadership organisations. ‘We can't win the battle of hearts and minds from Whitehall, it can only by won in local communities,' she added. ‘But we can provide more support and strategic leadership.' The fund has also issued new guidance to help Muslim communities fight extremist messages. ‘The battle for hearts and minds is more important than ever as is the need for closer working together,' added Ms Kelly.
