What is Martyn's Law?
Martyn's Law is the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025. It requires certain venues and events to take reasonable steps to protect the public from terrorist attacks.
It is named after Martyn Hett, who was killed in the Manchester Arena attack in 2017. The law covers improved security, staff training and preparation. It's about preparedness, not fear.
Who it applies to
The law applies to publicly accessible premises and events where 200 or more people may be present at the same time. There are two tiers.
Tell the Security Industry Authority (SIA) you are responsible for the premises, and have simple public protection procedures in place: evacuation, moving people to safety, locking down and sharing information.
Everything in the standard tier, plus public protection measures that reduce vulnerability to attack, such as access control, surveillance and physical security, with records kept for the SIA. Also applies to qualifying events of 800 or more.
The SIA is the regulator. It will be able to issue notices and financial penalties for serious or repeated non-compliance.
When it comes in
- 3 April 2025Royal Assent. The Bill became the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025.
- April 2026Statutory guidance published to help responsible persons prepare.
- Expected no earlier than 2027Duties come into force after an implementation period of at least 24 months.
Don't wait for the deadline. The steps below make your event safer today, and they put you in a strong position when the duties become enforceable.
The checklist
- Risk assessment
Identify and assess potential threats, vulnerabilities and risks specific to your event, venue and audience.
- Security plan
Put proportionate security measures in place, including staffing, access control, crowd management and emergency procedures.
- Vetting & staff training
Make sure staff and contractors are properly vetted and trained to recognise and respond to suspicious behaviour or items.
- Surveillance & monitoring
Use CCTV, bag checks and screening where appropriate, and keep clear communication channels open with the police and your security team.
- Access & perimeter control
Manage entry and exit points, prevent unauthorised access and keep the event site and surroundings secure.
- Communication & cooperation
Work with local authorities, emergency services and your security provider. Keep staff and attendees informed with clear instructions.
- Review & improve
After the event, review what went well and what could be better, then update your plans and procedures.
Events covered
Events above the threshold set by law include:
- Music concerts and festivals
- Sporting events
- Cultural and community events
- Exhibitions and trade shows
- Private and public gatherings
How we help
We liaise directly with the Martyn's Law team within the SIA, and our officers are ACT counter terrorism trained. We can help you with:
- Risk assessments and event security plans
- Run, Hide, Tell procedures and staff briefings
- Hostile vehicle mitigation strategies
- HOT protocols for unattended items
- Officers trained to spot and engage with suspicious behaviour
Safer events. Stronger communities.
This guide is general information to help you prepare. It is not legal advice. Always check the latest requirements with the relevant authority. Last reviewed October 2026.
