The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, widely recognised as Martyn’s Law, became law on 3 April 2025. Its purpose is simple: to make public places safer by ensuring organisations think about the threat of terrorism and have proportionate measures in place to protect people.
The legislation was driven by the tireless campaigning of Figen Murray, whose son, Martyn Hett, was killed in the Manchester Arena attack. Her commitment to improving public safety has been instrumental in shaping this new legal framework, which now requires thousands of venues and events across the UK to take action.
Why Martyn’s Law Has Been Introduced
Martyn’s Law is designed to reduce avoidable risks and help organisations of all sizes prepare for the possibility of an attack. Many premises already take precautions voluntarily; however, the Act sets a clear and consistent standard that all qualifying premises and events must meet.
The aim is not to burden organisations with unnecessary bureaucracy but to ensure that reasonable, practical steps are taken to safeguard employees, customers, and visitors should the worst happen.
Which Premises and Events Are Covered?
The Act applies to a wide range of publicly accessible spaces. If a venue, facility, or event allows the public to enter, either freely or by purchasing a ticket, it may fall under the new requirements. Martyn’s Law introduces two levels of duty based on capacity.
Standard Duty:
Premises and Events for 200 to 799 People
These locations must put basic protective security measures in place such as identifying points of vulnerability, providing staff with terrorism awareness information, and establishing simple and effective response procedures.
Typical examples include retail units and shops, small entertainment venues, places of worship, local authority buildings, community facilities, and small sports venues.
Enhanced Duty:
Premises and Events for 800 or More People
Large, high-capacity venues have more comprehensive requirements including formal risk assessments and detailed security plans. These settings might include stadiums and arenas, large theatres and concert venues, major shopping centres, conference and exhibition centres, and large transport hubs where public access is permitted.
The key principle behind both duties is proportionality. The measures required must reflect the scale and nature of the risk.
The Role of the Security Industry Authority (SIA)
To support and regulate the implementation of Martyn’s Law, the Security Industry Authority has been assigned as the responsible regulator. All organisations that fall within scope must notify the SIA, which will act as their main point of guidance and oversight.
The SIA’s role includes issuing statutory guidance, helping organisations understand what compliance looks like, and offering support during the early stages of the regime. Over time, the SIA will also assess how duty-holders are meeting their responsibilities by reviewing plans, providing feedback, and intervening when obligations are not being met.
As Martyn’s Law is phased in, the SIA’s regulatory powers will grow. By 2027, it is expected that the SIA will have the authority to inspect premises, investigate concerns, and take enforcement action where serious failings are identified.
What This Means for Organisations
Martyn’s Law will require many organisations to review their current arrangements and consider whether existing policies, staff training, and physical security measures are sufficient. For some, this may mean only minor adjustments. For others, it may require a more structured approach to planning and preparedness.
Importantly, the implementation period gives businesses time to prepare. By starting early and understanding which duty applies, identifying the gaps, and gradually putting measures in place, organisations can spread the workload and ensure they meet the requirements well ahead of the 2027 deadline.
Talk to Our Security Team
If you need guidance on how Martyn’s Law affects your organisation, get in touch today and one of our specialists will advise you on the steps you need to take.