What Is Martyn’s Law?
Martyn’s Law, formally known as the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) legislation, is a new UK law designed to improve public safety at venues and events.
The legislation aims to ensure that those responsible for publicly accessible premises consider the risk of terrorism and take reasonably practicable steps to protect people.
It is named in memory of Martyn Hett, who tragically lost his life in the Manchester Arena attack in 2017.
The intention of the law is not to create fear or impose extreme security measures. Instead, it seeks to embed a culture of preparedness, proportionate planning, and clear responsibility across venues and events.
Why Was Martyn’s Law Introduced?
Official guidance from ProtectUK highlights that the purpose of the legislation is to improve protective security and organisational preparedness across the UK.
The law recognises that many venues and events are already managing health and safety, fire safety, and crowd safety responsibilities. Martyn’s Law extends this mindset to include preparedness for terrorism-related incidents.
It focuses on:
- Awareness of risk
- Proportionate mitigation
- Staff preparedness
- Clear accountability
The aim is not perfection. It is preparedness.
A Tiered Approach
One of the key principles of Martyn’s Law is that it is proportionate.
Not every venue or event faces the same risk. As a result, the law is structured into tiers, with requirements increasing depending on the size and nature of the premises.
Smaller premises may fall under standard requirements focused on awareness and basic planning.
Larger premises or events — where higher numbers of people may be present — may fall under enhanced requirements, which involve more detailed planning and documentation.
This tiered system ensures that obligations are balanced and realistic.
What Is the Law Asking For?
At its core, Martyn’s Law asks responsible parties to:
- Understand whether their premises or event is in scope
- Assess terrorism-related risks
- Put proportionate measures in place
- Ensure staff are aware of procedures
- Be able to demonstrate preparedness
It does not require extreme measures. It requires sensible ones.
The Bigger Picture
Martyn’s Law builds on existing safety responsibilities.
It encourages venues and event organisers to think proactively, embed awareness across teams, and ensure plans are not only written but understood.
Ultimately, it is about protecting people through reasonable, proportionate, and practical steps.