Keeping everyone safe
We are extremely proud that Edinburgh is a diverse, welcoming city that embraces all sections of society and a city where people from different backgrounds get on well together.
Following the horrific events in other parts of the UK in the past week, we’re determined to preserve the great community strength, spirit and resilience that exists across our capital city.
The Lord Provost and Council Leader have put their names to a joint statement published by the Edinburgh Interfaith Association condemning the actions of extremist groups, supporting those affected and appealing to the public not to share speculation or inaccurate information on social media.
Thankfully, there is currently no intelligence to suggest we’re facing increased tensions here in Edinburgh, but we want everyone to feel reassured and safe. We are grateful to Police Scotland for reaching out to our communities and allaying fears of such hatred spreading here. Read Police Scotland's statement on UK disorder.
We continue to work closely with the Edinburgh Partnership to
- monitor the national situation
- be prepared should any we experience any issues here
- provide reassurance and guidance to our communities across the city.
Where you can get help and support
Emergency services
- If you are in immediate danger, always dial 999 in an emergency for police, fire and medical or ambulance services.
- For non-emergencies call 101 (+44 (0) 141 308 1070 if calling from outside the UK. Network charges may apply). Police Scotland spend a lot of time each day answering calls on matters that are not actually the responsibility of the police. Please read Police Scotland’s information before you call 101 to make sure they can assist with your non-emergency issue.
Police Scotland contacts and information
- Police Scotland website
- Hate Crime information
- Find your local police station and check the public counter opening hours
- Text Relay - 18001101 for deaf, deafened, hard of hearing or speech-impaired callers
- Support for British Sign Language users/speakers
NHS
- In an emergency phone 999
- Phone 111 for free if you think you need A&E but it’s not life or limb threatening. The 111 service can also help if you’re in mental health distress, or your GP practice, pharmacy, or dental practice is closed.
- NHS24 website
Council emergency, safety and crime information
National organisations providing support
Support for young people in our schools
We respond to any form of bullying or prejudice within our schools or centres.
Talk to a member of staff, such as a head teacher, youth worker or social worker, if you have concerns. Download our school bullying policy and procedures - PDFs
Where you can get help locally
- iThrive – online space for adult mental health and wellbeing information in Edinburgh
- EVOC Red Book – directory of community organisations that offer support
Support for communities and families
- Contact your local office to report antisocial behaviour including abuse, harassment and noise. You can either call them or drop into the office during working hours.
- Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities
- Support for mental health
- Wellbeing and mental health information and advice
- Social care and health information including information on supporting someone having a mental health crisis
- Council’s Family and Household Support Service
Support for parents
Advice for students
Speak to your university or college student support and wellbeing services
- University of Edinburgh
- Heriot Watt University
- Napier University
- Queen Margaret University
- Edinburgh College
- Council’s advice webpage for students
Advice for businesses
If you need help and advice to plan for disruption to you business
- Business Gateway Edinburgh - call 0131 529 6644 or email bgi@edinburgh.gov.uk