The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, commonly referred to as Martyn’s Law, is new legislation designed to strengthen how publicly accessible venues and events prepare for and respond to terrorist threats.

Developed following the Manchester Arena bombing, the law introduces a legal duty for those responsible for certain premises and events to assess the risk of terrorism and take appropriate steps to reduce vulnerability and protect the public. The legislation applies across the UK and uses a tiered approach based mainly on expected occupancy. In broad terms, venues and events where 200 or more people may be present will fall within scope, with additional requirements for larger or more complex settings. This includes a wide range of publicly accessible places, from retail and hospitality through to entertainment venues, places of worship and event spaces.

When does it come into force?

Martyn’s Law received Royal Assent in April 2025 but is not expected to come into force until around 2027. This implementation period is intended to give organisations time to understand their responsibilities and begin preparing in a structured way.

What will organisations be expected to do?

Martyn’s Law follows a risk-based approach that will feel familiar to those working in health and safety. There is no fixed checklist. Instead, organisations are expected to:

• understand their exposure to risk
• put in place measures suited to their setting
• ensure staff are prepared to respond effectively

Smaller venues will typically focus on procedures and staff awareness, while larger venues and events will require more formal planning, clearer accountability, and potentially enhanced protective measures.

How does this link into Health & Safety?

The approach aligns closely with established duties under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999.

For many organisations, this will not mean starting from scratch. Instead, it is about extending existing risk management and emergency planning processes to include terrorism-related threats where relevant.

Where should I start?

While detailed statutory guidance is still to come, the direction is clear that organisations should begin taking early, proportionate steps to prepare:

• confirm whether your premises or events are likely to fall within scope
• identify internal ownership for preparedness and compliance
• carry out a high-level review of current arrangements
• build awareness among key staff and decision-makers
• start capturing key procedures and responsibilities

Remember, Martyn’s Law is about embedding practical, risk-informed preparedness into everyday operations, not turning venues into high-security environments. And importantly, taking early action now will help position organisations to respond efficiently once the final requirements are confirmed, without overcommitting resources.