New Martyn’s Law guidance published for venues and business premises

The Home Office has published new guidance for businesses and venues to help them put plans in place to protect the public from acts of terrorism and comply with Martyn’s Law.

The guidance, available from the GOV.UK website, supports the implementation of the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, better known as Martyn’s Law. The law takes its name from Martyn Hett, originally from Stockport, who was on the 22 people to lose their lifes in the Manchester Arena attack, and whose mother, Figen Murray, has been a prominent campaigner in favour of the law.

The new guidance sets out clear steps for businesses to comply with the law’s requirements, and includes advice specifically for smaller premises like shops and restaurants. Recommendations for venues accommodating between 200 and 799 people include ensuring evacuation routes are in place, staff knowing how to swiftly implement a lockdown in their building, and staff knowing how to quickly communicate with their customers were an attack to occur.

Larger premises and events like concerts and sports stadiums, where 800 or more people will be present, will be required to take further steps to reduce their vulnerability to acts of terrorism – such as having CCTV, bag search policies, or vehicle checks where appropriate.

The act will come into effect after an implementation period of at least 24 months from Royal Assent, giving organisations time to understand their new obligations and prepare.

Figen Murray, mother of Martyn Hett said:

“This represents another significant milestone for the Martyn’s Law campaign and will provide the clarity for venues and events within scope to begin to implement proportionate measures set out within Martyn’s Law.

“We must now ensure everyone is aware of what is required and to make public spaces more secure from the impact of a terrorist attack, so no family has to endure the lasting pain that mine and 21 others have gone through.”

By providing practical advice and clear instructions to meet the requirements set out in the act, it empowers organisations to take proportionate steps to protect lives and improve emergency preparedness – helping to keep both staff and visitors safe across the UK.

It is designed to explain the act’s requirements in a way that works for all and reflects the government’s clear intent that those responsible for premises and events in scope can comply without needing to buy specialist or consultancy services.

Michelle Russell, Chief Executive of the Security Industry (SIA) said:

“Today is an important milestone. As the regulator of Martyn’s law, the SIA’s approach will be driven by public protection objectives. Our focus will be to ensure compliance with the requirements set out in the legislation and Home Office section 27 guidance published today.

“This guidance will enable us as the independent regulator to take decisions on whether premises and events in scope have taken the steps, they need to comply and play our part in bringing about improvements to protective security across the UK.”