Hundreds of young people gathered at the Corn Exchange in Edinburgh on Tuesday 9 September for Igniting Change a major event aimed at shaping Scotland’s youth-led response to fireworks safety.
The event was hosted by Fearless, the youth arm of charity Crimestoppers, in partnership with Police Scotland and supported by key public safety organisations.
Pupils took part in workshops and creative sessions designed to help them understand the risks of fireworks misuse and contribute directly to a new national safety campaign ahead of Bonfire Night.
“Every autumn, we see the real impact fireworks misuse can have on people, animals, and communities,” said Lyndsay McDade, Fearless Scotland Manager.
“But it’s wrong to assume young people aren’t just as affected and just as keen to see change as adults.”
Throughout the day, pupils explored the medical, environmental, and social impacts of fireworks across six themed workshops.
The Scottish Ambulance Service and Medics Against Violence led sessions on injury prevention.
Edinburgh Zoo highlighted the distress fireworks can cause animals.
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service tackled fire safety, while Police Scotland, Lothian Buses, and Fearless led discussions on antisocial behaviour and community responsibility.
In between, pupils added their thoughts to a digital graffiti wall, co-created a campaign soundtrack with a live DJ, and questioned experts in a live Q&A panel.
Chief Superintendent David Robertson of Police Scotland called the event “a terrific way for key partners to engage proactively with young people.”
He added:
“The number of recorded incidents involving fireworks has increased, and in addition to the danger this poses to emergency services, it has a significant and detrimental impact on our communities, including young people themselves.”
Group Commander Murray Dalgleish of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service agreed.
“Engaging with young people is one of the most valuable and worthwhile parts of the firefighter role,” he said.
“Events like this help us show them the risks and hear directly what they think and feel.”
Insights and ideas from the day will now form the foundation of a new social media campaign launching 27 October across TikTok, Snapchat, and Instagram.
Led by young voices and driven by peer-to-peer content, the campaign will promote safer choices and stronger communities in the run-up to Bonfire Night.
