Martyn's Law is here, but what do I need to do?

Martyn's Law, also known as the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill, has now passed into  legislation. The purpose of the Bill is twofold - to reduce terrorist attacks in the UK and, if an attack does occur, to reduce the impact on those people involved.

The law is named after Martyn Hett, one of 22 people killed in the 2017 Manchester Arena bombing. You can read more about Martyn and why this law came into being here.

This new legislation requires those responsible for operations at certain public premises and venues to not just consider terrorism risks, but develop robust response plans to potential attacks. The core principle behind Martyn's Law is that simple steps and good planning can save lives.

Who will Martyn's Law apply to?

Martyn's Law is designed for a wide range of premises and venues, including outdoor events that the public have access to. The legislation creates two tiers of venues – the Standard Tier, and the Enhanced Tier. These tiers are based on the people capacity of the premises, including staff.

The Standard Tier applies to premises with a capacity of between 200 and 800. Therefore, many retail stores, entertainment venues, pubs, and restaurants will fall under the Standard Tier banner.

In general, the Enhanced Tier applies to premises and events with a capacity of 800 or more people. Therefore, large shopping centres, hotels, sports stadiums, major entertainment venues, and outdoor festivals will sit within the Enhanced Tier category. Bear in mind there are exceptions to this.

Both tiers will be required to consider and implement a range of measures. However, those in the Enhanced Tier will need to put more significant protection processes in place.

Therefore, small venues, private homes, and offices which are closed to the public are not in scope of Martyn’s Law.

What will Martyn's Law require you to do as a business?

Under Martyn's Law, businesses and organisations – especially those in hospitality and leisure – will face different requirements depending on whether they fall into the Standard or Enhanced Tier:

1. The requirements for the smaller Standard Tier premises focus on activities to enact policies and procedures that are expected to be simple and low cost, and the aim of these requirements is to improve staff preparedness and responses. The Act does not require physical alterations to premises or the purchase of equipment for the purpose of having these procedures in place.
2. Those responsible for Enhanced Tier premises and qualifying events are required to have public protection procedures in place, too, but they must also do more in recognition of the potentially more impactful consequence of a successful terrorist attack. They’re required to implement, so far as is reasonably practicable, appropriate public protection measures. These are measures that further the objectives of reducing the vulnerability of the premises or event to acts of terrorism, or reducing the risk of physical harm to individuals, thereby providing better protection from acts of terrorism.

Guidance and support will be provided to help organisations understand and meet their new legal obligations. While the exact details are still being finalised, the overall aim is to create a culture of security awareness and preparedness across public spaces in the UK.

What help is out there?

While Martyn’s Law may seem like a lot for a business within the Standard or Enhanced Tier to take in and implement, you don’t have to figure out all these changes and security additions without assistance. 

Team 9 are security specialists with extensive experience and have advised the highest levels of UK government, and commercial organisations including finance, aviation, and insurance industry partners.

Their comprehensive security audits adhere to internationally recognised ISO standards 31000, 31030, and 27001, ensuring a rigorous, intelligence-led assessment of your organisation’s vulnerabilities. As event planning and safety experts, they align with The Purple Guide and Martyn’s Law, helping businesses enhance security at public gatherings and venues.

Paul Davidson, Director and Senior Security and Investigations Consultant at Team 9, says: “We assess physical security, personnel safety, cyber risks, and regulatory compliance, ensuring your security measures satisfy regulators, legal requirements, and industry best practices. Our expert consultants provide clear, actionable insights to optimise security investments, eliminate unnecessary costs, and strengthen real areas of risk – giving you confidence in robust, ISO-compliant security solutions.”

Using a trusted partner to work better together

Compliance with Martyn’s Law isn’t just a legal necessity – it’s a critical step in safeguarding people and assets. Team 9 have already established themselves as experts in Martyn’s Law audits and compliance, helping businesses understand and implement the minimum legal requirements without unnecessary cost.

This is exactly why Howden has partnered with Team 9 – ensuring that as a trusted broker and risk management specialist for venues of all sizes, we’re backed up by one of the foremost security organisations. 

Team 9 advised UK government departments on counter-terrorism policy and response, as well as C-suite executives on robust security solutions. With their unmatched expertise, they provide practical, cost-effective compliance strategies tailored to businesses, ensuring they meet all necessary security obligations with confidence.
If you’d like to know more about how Howden, in tandem with Team 9, can help your business approach and adhere to the changes brought about by Martyn’s Law, speak to one of our specialist team today on 0345 075 2288, or email [email protected]