What is Martyn’s Law?

Martyn’s Law is a new law about protecting people in public places from terrorism. If you run a venue or an event, it’s worth understanding now, even though it isn’t fully in force yet.

What is Martyn’s Law?

The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025 became law in April 2025. It’s known as Martyn’s Law, in memory of Martyn Hett, who sadly died in the Manchester Arena attack in 2017. It asks the people who run busy event spaces to plan for the worst.

When it starts

The law is currently being phased in. The government has talked about a two-year gap after it passed, and the Security Industry Authority (SIA) is due to become the regulator, with the rules expected to start in spring 2027. Official guidance for venues is expected to be published sometime in 2026. You can find out all about Martyn's Law in more detail here.

Who it applies to

It’s based on how many people a place can hold:

• 200 or more: a “standard” duty. You need sensible plans for what to do in an emergency, such as how to evacuate, how to move people to safety indoors, and how to tell people what’s happening.

• 800 or more: an “enhanced” duty. You also need measures to reduce risk, which could include things like CCTV, bag searches, patrols and controlled entry, and you need to record what you’ve done.

This also covers some events, not just buildings. Check the official guidance to see if your place or event is included.

What you can do now

• Work out your capacity.

• Review your emergency plans and make sure your staff know them.

• Check your stewards and security staff are trained and briefed.

• Talk to a security provider about what a plan would look like for your venue.

How we can help

We work with venues and events every day. We can help you look at your current arrangements, brief your teams and put the right people in the right places. We aren’t lawyers, so please check the official guidance for what you must do.

If you have any questions, feel free to get in touch here.