Local partnerships across Edinburgh focus on Community safety ahead of Bonfire Night

Places for People (PfP) and Community partners across Edinburgh, are stepping up efforts to prevent firework misuse and anti-social behaviour (ASB) ahead of Bonfire Night.

For many, Bonfire Night is a chance for family and friends to gather and celebrate. However, it can bring challenges as well as celebrations, affecting residents’ sense of safety.

PfP manages over 9,000 homes and provides services to almost 10,500 Customers across Scotland.

In the run-up to Bonfire Night, colleagues from PfP’s Community Safety Team have joined forces with Police Scotland’s local Police team, Scottish Fire & Rescue, local councils, youth services and local MPs to help tackle ASB and support residents to feel safe in their homes and neighbourhoods.

This partnership approach has helped deliver a range of free social activities encouraging engagement with local services and strengthening Community spirit. Events have included music workshops for young people, area specific clear-up days, afternoon tea sessions for older residents, peer mentoring and public drop-in sessions.

PfP has arranged activities for local young people on the night, helping to deter them from engaging in the ASB seen in previous years.

Earlier this month, it was announced that Places for People Scotland’s (PfP Scotland) Craigmillar and Niddrie Bonfire Night ASB Initiative has been shortlisted in the Working in Partnership category at the 2026 Scotland Housing Awards, recognising the positive impact of local organisations working together to support residents through proactive engagement.

Part of the wider response to Bonfire Night ASB has included the relaunch of Operations Moonbeam and Crackle, Police Scotland’s annual operations to help keep residents safe during Halloween and Bonfire Night. Measures include the introduction of 14 firework control areas, dispersal zones across multiple wards and increased patrols.

Under this wider national approach, Police Scotland recorded an almost 37% reduction in calls relating to fireworks offences across Scotland during the 2025 Bonfire Night period, compared with the previous year. While there is still work to be done, this is a positive step towards reducing ASB and public disorder. 

Kelly Brown, Director at PfP Scotland, said: "Strong partnerships are at the heart of creating safer neighbourhoods, and It’s been fantastic to hear about the proactive work going on ahead of Bonfire Night.

“By taking a locally led approach and working alongside partners, we can support our Customers, help tackle anti-social behaviour and ensure everyone can enjoy the celebrations safely and responsibly.

“We know that lasting change comes from people and organisations working together, and that's exactly what we're seeing in Communities across Edinburgh.”

Neil Wilson, Superintendent, Edinburgh City Division at Police Scotland, said: “I want to extend my sincere thanks to the City of Edinburgh Council, PfP Scotland and all partners for their vital support during the Bonfire Night period. Their dedication to funding and delivering crucial prevention and diversionary initiatives has been instrumental in keeping our communities safe and reducing anti-social behaviour.

"Tackling disorder is a collective effort, and by working closely with our partners, we have been able to engage with young people, support local residents and ensure we are best prepared to safeguard Edinburgh’s communities during this period.”