Terrorism – Protection of Premises Act 2025 (Martyn’s Law)

Whether coordinating a public event, corporate function, or high-profile gathering, we assist in the design and implementation of a comprehensive plan that will protect attendees, personnel, and assets, while ensuring full compliance with all relevant regulations. We use experienced and accredited Counter Terrorism Security Coordinators to give you the reassurance that you’re receiving the best advice. We know that ensuring the safety and security of your event requires meticulous planning, comprehensive threat analysis, and strict adherence to evolving legal standards. At Hawkshaw we provide bespoke advisory services on security arrangements, crowd dynamics, emergency response planning, and threat mitigation, to help inform your Risk assessment

FAQ

What Is Martyn’s Law and does it apply to?

Martyn’s Law, now officially titled the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025—came into force in April 2025, and applies throughout England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. Named in memory of Martyn Hett, a victim of the Manchester Arena bombing, the law is the result of tireless campaigning by his mother, Figen Murray.

Its goal is straightforward: to help save lives by ensuring public-facing organisations are prepared for terrorist threats.

Who Does Martyn’s Law Apply To?

The legislation places specific duties on a wide range of publicly accessible venues, such as:

• Healthcare facilities e.g. hospitals
• Schools (exempt from enhanced arrangements)
• Leisure centres & gyms
• Community centres
• Wedding venues
• Retail premises
• Entertainment premises

If your premises can host 200 or more people, then Martyn’s Law likely applies to you.

Two-Tier System of Requirements

Martyn’s Law operates on a tiered system, based on capacity:

1. Standard Duty Premises

For venues that hold between 200 to 799 people:

• You must register with the Security Industry Authority (SIA).
• Implement proportionate safety procedures, including evacuation, lockdown, invacuation, and communication plans.

2. Enhanced Duty Premises

For venues with 800 or more people:

• Fulfil all Standard Duty requirements, plus:
  • Conduct a vulnerability assessment.
  • Appoint a Senior Responsible Person to oversee compliance.

Note: Events that may be expecting 800+ attendees fall under the Enhanced Duty, even if they fail to sell that many tickets.

Who Is Considered the Responsible Person?

The “responsible person” is typically the venue operator or event organiser—the individual who has control over the premises. If multiple activities occur in one space, the person managing the main or principal function is accountable for compliance. It is recommended that at an event inside another premises, these two people satisfy themselves together that the legislation has been complied with.

Should You Wait for Official Guidance Before Starting Training?

Many organisations express concern about investing in training before receiving formal guidance—especially when budgets are tight or licensing changes are pending.

But here’s the key point: Martyn’s Law is about protecting people, and it is in UK law now.

The law doesn’t require you to install scanners or metal detectors. It focuses on awareness, response and being prepared, which are skills best developed through practical training.

Ask yourself:

• Do your staff know how to respond to a terrorist threat or other critical incident?
• Could your venue or event successfully execute a lockdown or evacuation?
• Are your teams truly prepared – have your business continuity plans been reviewed and tested?
• When if ever have your staff had an input on dealing with a crisis?

Why You Should Start Training / Planning Now

Although there’s a 24-month implementation window (from April 2025), threats can occur at any time. Waiting means your people could be unprepared when it matters most, and the law is in effect as of April 2025.

We have trained and accredited Counter Terrorism experts, who have created plans for:

• National music festivals
• National sporting events
• Royal visits
• Military parades and events
• Government engagements

Please contact us now and we can have an informal discussion regarding your requirements.