Find out more about the The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, also known as Martyn’s Law. It sets outs what organisations and businesses need to do to make their venue safer for customers. Below we have detailed how it may affect your business, with links to more information including factsheets, good pratice and seminars.
What is Martyn's Law
The Terrorism (Protection of premises) Act, also known as 'Martyn’s Law' in tribute to Martyn Hett, who was tragically killed alongside 21 others in the Manchester Arena terrorist attack in 2017. Martyn’s Law enhances public safety by ensuring there is better preparedness for, and protection from, terrorist attacks at public venues. It requires those responsible for certain premises and events to consider the risk from terrorism and how they would respond to a terrorist attack.
Read the Home Office 'Martyn's Law Factsheet here.
How does it affect your venue?
The Act requires certain venues to fulfil necessary but proportionate steps according to their capacity to mitigate the impact of a terrorist attack and reduce harm. The duties that premises will have will depend on the size of the venue.
The standard tier is for premises that host between 200 and 799 people at the
same time.
The enhanced tier is for premises and events that host 800 or more people.
Find out more about Martyn's Law and what you need to know
Training and resources for Martyn's Law
The Home Office have various resources to help you better understand and communicate Martyn's Law with your teams
- Premises scope infographic
- Events scope infographic
- Martyn’s Law myth buster
You can also find training courses via the Security Industry Authority (SIA) training hub. Their Martyn's Law Guide explains the standard tier and enhanced tier in plain English and gives practical checklists for security guards, door supervisors, CCTV operators and site supervisors.
Good security practice
A good security culture is about considering proportionate measures and activities, which, if done well, enhance the experience of visitors at public places, and do not impact on accessibility or personal freedoms.
Achieving the right balance is about employing the right staff, getting training, systems, and processes right, and having appropriate guidance to know that you are doing the right things to achieve outcomes sought.
Find out more about Good security practice on ProtectUK here.
Further Information
To enhance understanding of the requirements within the legislation, the Martyn’s Law Team in the Home Office will be hosting information sessions on the application of the Standard Tier (capacity 100-799). These sessions will take place in the coming months. If you would like to attend a future session, please email protectduty@homeoffice.gov.uk
For the most up to date information, please refer to ProtectUK - https://www.protectuk.police.uk/news-views/martyns-law-what-you-need-know
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