STAFF at the Peace Centre are urging the Prime Minister to recognise 'prevention is better than cure' when dealing with terrorism after slamming the Government for relying on money raised from 'raffles and tombolas' to tackle 'one of society's biggest challenges'.

The call follows David Cameron announcing new 'anti-terror' measures, including stopping British-born extremists from returning to the UK, as tensions grow over groups including Islamic State.

The Tim Parry Johnathan Ball Foundation for Peace has said such a response is 'short-term' and there is a lack of investment in activities needed to confront and prevent violent extremism leading to terrorism.

The charity is one of a small number of UK organisations specialising in preventing violent extremism and believes while the Government is taking action to deal with immediate security challenges, it also needs to invest in long-term solutions to challenge extremism and those people who use 'violence to further their aims'.

Nick Taylor, foundation chief executive, said: “It is a well understood concept that prevention is better than cure and yet we are throwing all our efforts into short term measures that do not tackle the root causes of extremism that leads to violent conflict and terrorism.

“Enough is enough and we need investment in the foundation’s tools and techniques that have stood the test of time.

"Whilst we can access short-term project funds, it is perverse that my team is having to fundraise through raffles, tombolas and rely on people’s generosity to tackle one of society’s biggest challenges."

The Great Sankey-based cause, set up in memory of Tim Parry and Johnathan Ball following the 1993 Warrington bombing, is asking the Government to accept a three-point plan of action.

It includes recognising the need to find ways of funding and commissioning independent organisations like the Foundation to undertake sensitive dialogue with vulnerable individuals and communities, recruit skilled professionals in peace building and balance spending on security against investing in prevention work.

Mr Taylor added: “The pernicious thoughts that lead to prejudice, hatred and extremism start in the home and on the playground.

"We need to equip people with the skills to influence conflict without it leading to violence.

"The Foundation changes attitudes and behaviours, and it works, but it needs to be funded and supported for the long-term."

The charity will be writing to all party leaders to ask them to commit to long-term investment and to accelerate action to support its programmes in the prevention, resolution and response to violent conflict.