A specially designed Lothian bus has hit the streets of the capital yesterday (27 August), showcasing a powerful collection of artwork created by young people from across the city and sharing their vision for a safer, kinder and more inclusive Edinburgh.
The Safer Edinburgh bus is a result of a partnership between Lothian Buses, Places for People, Police Scotland, The City of Edinburgh Council, local schools and young people across the city, working together to encourage positive choices, promote respect and help create safer communities.
As part of the initiative, young people from P7 to S3 were invited to take part in a creative artwork challenge inspired by the question: ‘How can young people lead the way in creating a safer Edinburgh?’
Their artwork explored themes including safety, kindness, respect, inclusion, making positive choices and looking out for one another. A selection of the artwork has now been brought to life as a vibrant mosaic wrap covering a Lothian double-decker bus.
Transforming an everyday part of city life into a moving showcase of young people’s idea’s, the bus will travel across Edinburgh, sharing their positive messages with communities and customers throughout the city.
The Safer Edinburgh initiative forms part of Lothian Buses’ Youth Engagement Strategy, which aims to engage with young people across the communities Lothian serves and build positive relationships based on mutual respect and understanding.
The young artists and their teachers, along with representatives from each of the partner organisations, were invited to a special launch event at Lothian’s Central depot today. They had the opportunity to see the finished bus up close and celebrate their contribution before the vehicle officially enters service.
The project demonstrates a platform for young people to have their voices heard and demonstrates the positive contribution they can make in helping shape the communities they live in.