Martyn’s Law coming into force in under a year for UK venues

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Guidance on the new Martyn’s Law to help venues protect members of the public from terrorist attacks has been published by the Home Office with under a year until it comes into force.

The BBC said major venues and events will be better equipped to protect the public from terrorism, as new guidance to support the implementation of Martyn’s Law was published.

The guidance sets out clear steps for businesses. This includes for smaller premises like shops and restaurants with 200-799 people, to ensure evacuation routes are in place, staff know how to swiftly implement a lockdown in their building, and staff know how to quickly communicate with their customers were an attack to occur.

Larger premises and events like concerts and sports stadiums, where 800 or more people will be present, will be required to take further steps to reduce their vulnerability to acts of terrorism – such as having CCTV, bag search policies, or vehicle checks where appropriate.

The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act is also known as Martyn’s Law after Martyn Hett, who was one of 22 people killed in the 2017 Manchester Arena bombing.

The new law is expected to come into force in spring 2027.

Martyn’s mother Figen Murray led the campaign for the new legislation which was given Royal Assent on 3 April last year, but has an implementation period of at least two years before it comes into force.

Security Minister Dan Jarvis said, “Martyn’s Law will help to save lives by making sure venues are ready to act if the worst happens.

“This guidance is a significant step toward turning the law into action, giving organisations clear, straightforward advice to protect the public.

“I pay tribute to Figen Murray, whose dedication was instrumental in bringing this landmark law into existence.”

Figen Murray, mother of Martyn Hett said: “This represents another significant milestone for the Martyn’s Law campaign and will provide the clarity for venues and events within scope to begin to implement proportionate measures set out within Martyn’s Law.

“We must now ensure everyone is aware of what is required and to make public spaces more secure from the impact of a terrorist attack, so no family has to endure the lasting pain that mine and 21 others have gone through.”

She started campaigning for the new law in 2019 by launching an online petition to improve security measures to counter the threat of attacks and how venues respond to them.

By providing practical advice and clear instructions to meet the requirements set out in the act, the guidance empowers organisations to take proportionate steps to protect lives and improve emergency preparedness – helping to keep both staff and visitors safe across the UK.

It is designed to explain the act’s requirements in a way that works for all and reflects the government’s clear intent that those responsible for premises and events in scope can comply without needing to buy specialist or consultancy services.

It provides advice and illustrative examples to help those with responsibilities under the legislation.

As the regulator, the Security Industry Authority (SIA) will support, advise and guide those responsible for premises and events in meeting the requirements of this legislation.

Michelle Russell, Chief Executive of the SIA said: “As the regulator of Martyn’s law, the SIA’s approach will be driven by public protection objectives. Our focus will be to ensure compliance with the requirements set out in the legislation and Home Office section 27 guidance published today.

“This guidance will enable us as the independent regulator to take decisions on whether premises and events in scope have taken the steps, they need to comply and play our part in bringing about improvements to protective security across the UK.”

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