Inverness is preparing for another busy festive season as Operation Respect returns to support people across the city throughout December.
The initiative begins on Friday the fifth of December and continues until the end of the month, bringing together partners who know the city well and understand the pressures that come with this time of year.
The aim is simple.
Keep Inverness safe, steady, and welcoming for everyone who lives here and for everyone who visits in the weeks before the new year.
Operation Respect has become part of the rhythm of the city and it works because it draws on the strengths of multiple organisations rather than relying on one service alone.
Police Scotland leads the campaign through Inverness Area Command but its real power lies in the partnership behind it which includes public services, health teams, volunteers, and community groups who see the city from different angles.
Together they respond to street disorder, antisocial behaviour, retail crime, scams, and violence against women and girls, all of which can escalate when the nights draw in and the city centre fills with shoppers, workers, and festive gatherings.
Just as importantly the project focuses on people who are vulnerable because of mental health struggles, alcohol or substance use, or simple isolation which can deepen at this time of year.
Specialist first aid teams will be walking through the city centre and mobile patrols will feature police officers, paramedics, and mental health practitioners travelling together in a dedicated mental health vehicle to reach people in crisis.
There will be increased stewarding, immediate access to pastoral support, and a renewed focus on youth activity through new partnerships designed to keep young people safe and included.
Inspector Paul Sutherland said:
“We are once again preparing for a busy festive period.
“We are delighted to be working alongside partner agencies with a wide range of knowledge and expertise to keep people safe over the festive period in Inverness.
“The city has a vibrant atmosphere for shopping, entertainment, eating and drinking, we want this to shine through during the festivities and ensure that everyone has a very happy and safe celebration over this time.”
Councillor Ian Brown said:
“Operation Respect remains a vital part of our collective work to ensure Inverness continues to be a safe, welcoming, and vibrant city through the busy festive period.
“The strength of this initiative lies in its partnership approach.
“By combining the expertise of our public services, businesses, and volunteers, we can protect people, support those who are vulnerable, and maintain a city centre environment that residents, workers, and visitors can enjoy with confidence.”
Operation Respect is supported by Police Scotland, Highland Council, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, Scottish Ambulance Service, NHS Highland, BID Inverness, Street Pastors, MERT Highland, Mikeysline, and the Community Justice Partnership, all working to keep the city safe as the year draws to a close.
