Martyn’s Law: What it means for you and why training now still matters

What is Martyn’s Law, and who does it apply to?

Martyn’s Law, now officially the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, became Law in April and applies across England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. It’s named after Martyn Hett, one of the victims of the Manchester Arena attack, and is the result of years of campaigning by his mother, Figen Murray.

The Act aims to save lives by ensuring public-facing organisations are prepared for terrorism-related threats.

This Law introduces clear duties for a wide range of venues, including healthcare, local government offices, community centres, retail spaces, housing schemes, cultural and leisure venues, and more.

Martyn Hett, one of the victims of the Manchester Arena attack.

Does this apply to your venue?

If your premises host 200 or more people, then yes Martyn’s Law likely applies to you.

It operates on a two-tier system:

Standard Duty Premises

For sites expecting 200 to 799 people at any one time:

• You must register with the SIA.
• You need proportionate procedures for evacuation, lockdown, invacuation and communication.

Enhanced Duty Premises

For sites expecting 800+ people:

• You must meet the standard requirements.
• PLUS: Conduct vulnerability assessments.
• PLUS: Appoint a senior responsible person for compliance.

Events expecting 800+ attendees will also fall under enhanced duty, regardless of the venue’s day-to-day usage.

Who is the person responsible?

The Act defines the responsible person as the one who controls the premises or event, usually the venue operator or event organiser. Where multiple services operate in the same location, the person responsible for the principal activity must ensure compliance.

Should you wait for formal guidance before delivering training?

We’ve heard this concern from many clients, especially those navigating budget constraints or potential licensing changes.

But here’s the reality:

Martyn’s Law is not about security tech; it’s about people.

This legislation doesn’t mandate metal detectors or scanning equipment. Instead, it emphasises mindset, awareness, and readiness, all developed through practical training.

Ask yourself:

• Do your team know what to do in the event of a threat?
• Could your site confidently carry out a lockdown or evacuation?
• Are your teams truly prepared for real-world risks or just ticking training boxes?
• Would your emergency response plans hold up if tested today?

Why training still matters before the legislation takes effect

While the 24-month implementation window is designed to help organisations prepare, the risks don’t wait, and neither should your training.

At IKON, we’re already supporting teams across healthcare, local authorities and retail to:

• Improve situational awareness.
• Deliver clear, calm communication in crisis.
• Build confidence under pressure.
• Practice de-escalation and personal safety skills.
• Respond effectively to lockdown or evacuation scenarios.

This proactive training supports your long-term compliance, but more importantly, it protects your people now.

Training in Action: Empowering Staff at ExCeL London.

Helping You Meet Your Duty of Care

At IKON, we support frontline facilities managers, health and safety leads, training commissioners, and event organisers to feel clear and confident in their responsibilities.

Let’s have a conversation about where you are now and where you want your teams to be.

The Result?

Training that meets a legal requirement changes how people think, feel, and act under pressure.

Need support navigating Martyn’s Law?

IKON can help assess your organisation’s readiness to deliver practical, human-centred training to build confidence and compliance.

👉 Explore our training courses

📞 Get in touch with the team

Or email us directly at: [email protected]

About the Author

At IKON Training, we specialise in practical, people-focused training that builds confidence, calm and clarity in high-pressure situations.

Whether your teams work in healthcare, education, retail or public service settings, we aim to help them feel prepared, not just compliant.

IKON has supported frontline organisations for over twenty years, helping them improve communication, de-escalate conflict, and respond effectively to risk.

Useful External Links

UK Government: Martyn’s Law Introduced to Parliament
The official announcement details the introduction of Martyn’s Law to Parliament, outlining its objectives and scope.
👉 www.gov.uk/government/news/martyns-law-introduced-to-parliament-to-better-protect-the-public-from-terrorism​

UK Government: Martyn’s Law to Ensure Stronger Protections
Further information on how Martyn’s Law aims to enhance protections against terrorism in public places.
👉 www.gov.uk/government/news/martyns-law-to-ensure-stronger-protections-against-terrorism-in-public-places​

Home Office: Martyn’s Law Factsheet
A concise factsheet from the Home Office summarising the key points and implications of Martyn’s Law.
👉 homeofficemedia.blog.gov.uk/2024/09/13/martyns-law-factsheet​

Parliamentary Research Briefing: Martyn’s Law (PDF)
An in-depth House of Commons Library briefing document provides a detailed legislative analysis.
👉 researchbriefings.files.parliament.uk/documents/CBP-9799/CBP-9799.pdf​