Lisa Petrie is a great inspiration in my new city role - Helen Harrison

I’d like to thank my predecessor, Chief Superintendent David Robertson for all of the excellent work he oversaw during his tenure as Commander, which included the creation of the City Centre Policing Unit – something I know he was very passionate about.

CS Helen Harrison

Working previously in Local Area Commander roles in the city gave me a real insight into the value and impact of community policing and local engagement to deliver local improvements, which can be strengthened by partnership working.

I remain committed to building on these areas of work, while ensuring our response to threat, risk and vulnerability remains effective and best serves residents, communities and visitors to this great city.

Since leaving Edinburgh eight years ago, I have worked in the Lothians and Scottish Borders, before then taking on responsibility for the International Academy, where I worked on international development programmes including in Zambia, Malawi and Columbia.

My last role was head of the Professionals Standards Department, where I saw first-hand the importance of upholding the standards and values expected of those given the privilege to serve in Police Scotland.

I am keen to support all my officers and staff so that they are fully aware of the expectations and are empowered and enabled to best serve the communities of Edinburgh.

I arrived in post just as the Edinburgh Festival was concluding, giving me an opportunity to reflect on the successes of the policing opportunity keeping those involved, and the local communities, safe while capturing lessons to enhance how we police these significant events effectively.

In addition, over September we welcomed the Knife Angel to Edinburgh, giving us all the opportunity to pause and reflect on the dangers of knife crime and the importance of working as a collective to raise awareness of the dangers and prevent future occurrences.

I reflect on the strength and determination shown by Lisa Petrie and all those supporting her throughout the month and look forward to building on the work in the future.

Over the next few months, we aim to refocus our approach with regards to violence against women and girls in support of the national strategy. We are committed to creating a society where women and girls live free from violence, abuse, exploitation and harassment and officers within Edinburgh continue to work with our partners across criminal justice, and support services, to improve the opportunities and support for women and girls to report.

Finally, I’d like to give reassurance to our communities as we prepare for Halloween and Bonfire night. Here in the Capital we have already started our divisional response to tackling disorder over this period as part of Operation Crackle and on key dates between 31 October and 5 November we can call on additional specialist resource as part of Operation Moonbeam should they be required.

Please help us keep Bonfire Night a safe celebration for those who chose to observe it, and a peaceful evening for those who don’t. Chief Superintendent Helen Harrison, Edinburgh Divisional Commander