Since the Manchester Arena Bombing in 2017, security services around the world have disrupted 43 late-stage terror plots. 15 of these were domestic attacks within the UK.
These statistics highlight a sobering reality: the threat of terrorism remains substantial. No event — regardless of its size, location, or nature — is invulnerable.
Martyn’s Law is being introduced to combat these threats. However, many venues, organisers, and business owners remain unclear what the law requires of them. If you’re one of those looking for more information, keep reading…
Martyn’s Law, or the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, is UK legislation aimed at enhancing public safety in response to the 2017 Manchester Arena bombing. The law enforces proportionate security measures at public venues to help prevent and respond to terrorist threats.
Key Features:
Implementation Timeline: A 24-month period has been set for venues and organisers to become compliant. Guidance will be provided by the Security Industry Authority (SIA). Currently, the act is projected to come into force in April 2027.
Two-Tier System:
Standard Duty Tier (200–799 attendees): Requires basic security protocols, SIA notification, and clear documentation.
Enhanced Duty Tier (800+ attendees): Adds comprehensive risk assessments, designated Responsible Persons, and physical security measures like CCTV and bag checks.
Shared Responsibilities: Both venues and organisers must notify the SIA, assess risks, and coordinate safety procedures. Organisers must disclose attendee numbers and any sensitive event content.
Regulation: The SIA will oversee compliance and offer support, training, and guidance through platforms like ProtectUK.
Conference Care’s Approach:
Conference Care is preparing for compliance by reviewing risk protocols, training our team, and collaborating with venues. Our approach emphasises going beyond basic requirements to embed a strong culture of safety & preparedness across all events.
Martyn’s Law marks a significant shift in UK event security. Early, informed action is key to successful implementation.
The Background of Martyn’s Law
Martyn’s Law is officially named the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025. The law was established in direct response to the Manchester Arena bombing in May 2017. The attack tragically claimed 22 lives and injured over 1,000 more. One of those victims was Martyn Hett. Martyn’s mother, Figen Murray, became a leading voice in campaigning for stronger protections at public venues.
The law aims to improve security, preparedness, and clarity of responsibility across venues in the UK. It creates a framework of proportionate safety measures to counter the threat of terrorism.
The bill was first drafted in May 2023 and has undergone scrutiny and several changes since. In May 2025, on the 8th anniversary of the Manchester Arena bombing, Martyn’s Law received Royal Assent.
What now?
The government has set a 24-month implementation period. This provides a roadmap for organisations to follow. During this time:
- Venues and organisers should familiarise themselves with their obligations
- The Security Industry Authority (SIA) will distribute guidance to clarify their approach to regulation
- A focus group will monitor challenges, such as how last-minute changes in delegate numbers can affect tier classification
We’d highly recommend starting to plan now. There are already steps you can take to ensure compliance, such as nominating a responsible person.
What Martyn’s Law Means for You
Understanding the Two Tiers of Duty
Martyn’s Law introduces two distinct tiers of duty, based on the capacity of the premises. These are:
Standard Duty Tier
Applies to venues where 200–799 individuals may be present at any one time.
Responsibilities include:
- Notifying the SIA
- Implementing basic protective security measures.
- Ensuring all policies & documentation are in place.
This tier may include multiple smaller events within the same building. It’s not based on individual events but rather the number of people present in the premises at one time.
Enhanced Duty Tier
Applies to venues or events where 800+ individuals are present simultaneously.
In addition to the Standard Tier requirements, venues must:
- Notify the SIA.
- Carry out a comprehensive vulnerability assessment.
- Identify potential terrorist threats and put appropriate mitigation processes in place.
- Nominate a Responsible Person to manage the risk of physical harm.
- Provide additional training, including medical response training.
- Implement and document protective measures such as:
- CCTV
- Bag searches
- Vehicle checks
All procedures must be well-documented. They should cover everything from expected attendee numbers to event content. Be sure to include whether the event will tackle sensitive or controversial topics.
Martyn’s Law Regulation & Compliance
Who is Responsible for Regulation?
The Security Industry Authority (SIA) is the regulator responsible for overseeing compliance. They will:
- Monitor implementation and adherence.
- Manage non-compliance.
- Provide clear guidance, tools, and support for those affected by the law.
It’s important to note that measures are intended to be proportionate. Businesses should not feel pressured into spending excessive amounts on security overnight. Instead, Martyn’s Law promotes a measured and risk-based approach to public safety.
Who is Responsible for Compliance?
Responsibilities under Martyn’s Law are shared between venues and event organisers.
- Venues must notify the SIA when events fall under either tier, depending on the number of attendees. They must ensure that security procedures are appropriate, up-to-date, and clearly communicated.
- Organisers must:
- Disclose accurate attendee numbers
- Share information about speakers, topics, and any known risks such as protests or controversial content
- Work with venues to implement safety plans
A Responsible Person must be designated. This individual will be the primary point of contact for emergency services in the event of an incident.
Training, Support & Resources
Event organisers and venues are strongly encouraged to visit the ProtectUK website, which offers:
- Complimentary training resources
- Detailed guidelines for implementation
- Ongoing updates on regulatory expectations
Additional support and links for organisers can be found on the ICC Wales website.
Conference Care’s Approach
Martyn’s Law represents a landmark moment in the UK’s approach to public safety. While its provisions are comprehensive, they are designed to be practical and proportionate. The ultimate goal is to ensure better preparedness, faster response, and stronger protection for the public. The aim is to achieve this without placing undue burden on organisers or venues.
By acting early, understanding responsibilities, and working collaboratively, we can all play a part in making events across the UK safer for everyone.
We’re implementing a range of measures to ensure we’re compliant and, more importantly, that our events are as safe as possible for attendees. We’ve started by reviewing our current risk assessments and incident response plans to ensure they align with the proposed requirements.
We’re providing staff training so that everyone involved in the delivery of our events is aware of the new standards. This includes:
- Spotting potential threats.
- Understanding how to respond to different types of incidents.
- Managing effective on-site communication
As part of our pre-event planning, we’re working with venues to ensure they’re prepared and can demonstrate compliance. In particular, we’re focusing on security planning and communication protocols.
Conference Care is staying informed on the legislative timeline and guidance issued by the government. Ultimately, our goal is to exceed minimum compliance by fostering a strong culture of safety and vigilance across everything we do.
