Extra council staff will be out in key locations as part of the council’s Autumn Nights programme, combining community engagement, practical prevention and targeted enforcement.
Safer Lambeth
The operation brings together community safety, youth outreach, public protection, housing, licensing and other council teams, supported by CCTV and partner agencies.
Teams will be working with young people, residents, local businesses and venues to prevent problems before they arise, while responding to dangerous fireworks use, unsafe bonfires and other behaviour that puts people at risk.
The council is also taking preventative action to identify and remove waste and combustible materials that could be used to start dangerous fires.
Activity will focus on locations including Brixton, Clapham, the South Bank, Vauxhall, Streatham and Tulse Hill.
Word from the Cabinet
Cllr Jonathan Bartley, Lambeth’s Cabinet Member for Safer, Thriving Neighbourhoods, said: “Halloween and Bonfire Night should be occasions that everyone can enjoy safely, whether they’re celebrating with friends and family, heading out for the evening or simply enjoying some peace and quiet at home.
“Our approach is about preventing harm wherever possible, not just responding when things go wrong. That means engaging with young people, working alongside local businesses, removing potential fire hazards and making sure support is available for people who may feel particularly vulnerable.
“The vast majority of people enjoy these occasions responsibly, and we want everyone to have a good time. But where behaviour puts others at risk, including the dangerous misuse of fireworks, we will take appropriate action.
“By working together with our partners and communities, we can help make Lambeth a place where everyone feels safe, welcome and able to enjoy themselves.”
Autumn Nights programme focus:
- Preventing the illegal sale, storage and dangerous misuse of fireworks, including sales to under-18s.
- Engaging with young people and supporting positive, safe activities.
- Identifying and removing materials that could be used for dangerous bonfires.
- Working with venues and businesses to support a safe and welcoming night-time economy.
- Responding to behaviour that causes harm, including dangerous vehicle use, illegal street trading and environmental offences.
- Providing reassurance and safeguarding support, particularly for vulnerable residents.
