Looking after the quarter
Martyn’s Law
The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, also known as Martyn’s Law, will ensure the public are better protected from terrorism, by requiring certain public premises and events to be prepared and ready to keep people safe in the event of an attack.
What is Martyn's Law?
Named after Martyn Hett, who was killed in the 2017 Manchester Arena attack, the law aims to make sure that owners and operators of public spaces take proportionate steps to prepare for and respond to potential terrorist threats.
The Act received Royal Assent on Thursday 3 April 2025 and the Government intends for there to be an implementation period of at least 24 months before the Act comes into force. This period will enable those responsible for premises and events to have sufficient time to understand their new obligations, and to plan and prepare accordingly.
Which businesses/premises will be affected?
The legislation applies to all owners and operators of venues and public spaces. A tiered approach has been established – ‘standard tier’ and ‘enhanced tier’ – with those responsible for premises and events in scope required to fulfil different requirements according to the number of individuals it is reasonable to expect may be present.
What do businesses/premises need to do?
Standard tier (200–799 people)
Smaller premises that can hold between 200 and 799 people fall into the standard tier. Requirements in this tier focus on simple, low-cost actions to help staff reduce harm and save lives if an attack happens. Examples include:
- Locking doors
- Closing shutters
- Identifying safe routes or places to take cover
There is no need to install physical security measures under the standard tier.
Enhanced tier (800+ people)
Larger premises and public events with 800 or more people are in the enhanced tier. These locations must meet all the standard tier requirements plus extra measures. They must, as far as reasonably practical, put in place appropriate security and public protection measures to:
- Reduce vulnerability to terrorist acts
- Limit physical harm if an attack occurs
Useful links
A full, up-to-date, Martyn’s Law overview and FAQs are available on the ProtectUK website including requirements and enforcement.
Our online learning platform, powered by SEEDL, features a 30 minute overview of the legislation, available free of charge to employees of our members and targeted at all those working at or responsible for qualifying premises or events. Visit the course here. Not sure if you’re a member? View the list here.
For more detailed information on Premises please refer to the factsheet: Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025: Scope (Premises) – GOV.UK
For more detailed information on Events please refer to the factsheet: Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025: Scope (events) – GOV.UK
Released February 2026:
Released 30 September 2025:
A leaflet explaining the Act’s scope, requirements, the responsible person and regulator.
A ‘Myth Buster’ addressing misconceptions about the Act, discouraging the use of third-party providers and encouraging organisations to put effective protective security in place.
Released 17 June 2025:
Watch: Martyn’s Law explainer video
