Martyn’s Law, officially known as the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, is a UK law designed to ensure that certain public premises and events are better prepared and ready to protect people in case of a terrorist attack.
Through the Act, qualifying premises and events should be better prepared and protected, ready to respond in the event of a terrorist attack.
It was named in memory of Martyn Hett, one of the 22 people killed in the 2017 Manchester Arena terrorist attack. His mother, Figen Murray, has been a leading campaigner for stronger protections to help prevent similar tragedies.
Why Martyn’s Law Matters
The Manchester Arena bombing exposed gaps in how public venues prepare for and respond to major threats. While many businesses and event organisers already take safety seriously, there was no consistent legal requirement.
Martyn’s Law changes that, ensuring a minimum standardised approach across the UK.
The law is not about creating fear, but about resilience: equipping staff with the knowledge, training, and procedures to respond quickly and effectively in a crisis, potentially saving lives.
Who and What Is Covered?
Martyn’s Law applies across the UK to certain public premises and events.
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Standard tier: premises where 200–799 people may be present.
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Enhanced tier: premises or events where 800 or more people may be present.
The law is designed to cover a wide range of spaces — from concerts, stadiums, and shopping centres to smaller public-facing venues. The focus is on preparedness rather than turning venues into fortresses.
What Venues Must Do
The law sets out proportionate duties depending on size and capacity.
Standard Duty Premises (200–799 capacity)
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Notify the regulator (the Security Industry Authority, SIA).
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Put in place public protection procedures, so staff know what to do in the event of an incident — such as evacuation, invacuation (moving people to safety indoors), lockdown, or communication with emergency services.
These measures are intended to be practical and low-cost, focused on awareness and training rather than expensive infrastructure.
Enhanced Duty Premises & Events (800+ capacity)
In addition to the above, enhanced duty premises/events must:
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Have public protection measures to reduce risk and vulnerability (e.g. CCTV monitoring, security checks, entry controls).
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Document their procedures and measures, including an assessment of how these reduce vulnerability or harm, and share this with the SIA.
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Appoint a senior responsible individual (if the responsible entity is not a single person) to ensure compliance.
Who Enforces Martyn’s Law?
The Security Industry Authority (SIA) has been given a new regulatory role. It will:
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Provide guidance and support to venues and event organisers.
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Oversee compliance with the law.
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Have powers to issue compliance notices, financial penalties, or in serious cases, pursue criminal sanctions.
The SIA will also publish operational guidance explaining how it will carry out its regulatory duties.
Essential Emergency Equipment
To support preparedness and compliance with Martyn’s Law, every venue should have:
- Trauma & Bleed Kits – for immediate treatment of serious injuries.
- First Aid Kits & Defibrillators – essential for everyday and cardiac emergencies.
- Thermarmour Emergency Blankets – designed to prevent hypothermia and maintain body temperature in injured or shocked individuals.
- Emergency Lighting & Signage – to ensure safe evacuation and clear visibility during incidents.
- Secure Storage & PPE – to keep all emergency equipment protected, accessible, and ready for rapid use.
Including Thermarmour protection in your emergency response plan helps you provide complete casualty care and demonstrate a proactive commitment to public safety under Martyn’s Law.
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