Martyn's Law receives Royal Assent: How will it affect your organisation?

Named after Martyn Hett, a victim of the 2017 Manchester Arena bombing, the new law aims to strengthen the UK's resilience against terrorism by ensuring venues are better prepared to prevent and respond to potential attacks.

This article explores what the new law entails and how organisations and businesses across various sectors - including holiday parks, hospitality businesses, charities holding events, educational establishments and religious organisations - can work towards compliance.

Preparing for Martyn’s Law

The Government has been keen to promote a proportional response that is sympathetic to the financial burden placed on operators and an implementation period of up to 24 months is expected, nonetheless preparation is critical for ensuring compliance with Martyn’s Law and can include taking such proactive steps as reviewing current security practices and identifying gaps in security infrastructure and procedures.

This may involve engaging with security consultants or risk management companies, who can evaluate vulnerabilities specific to site and usage, particularly crowded areas, and provide expert guidance in developing tailored security measures that align with the law’s requirements. Depending on the tier, measures could include bag checks, vehicle barriers and surveillance systems.

Ongoing staff training is essential, teaching members of staff how to identify suspicious behaviour, understand evacuation procedures and respond effectively in the event of an attack. Simulated drills are also recommended to prepare for emergency scenarios, and it’s important to have an Incident Response Plan that includes clear plans for lockdown, evacuation and emergency communication. This should be regularly tested and updated to address emerging threats.

It may also be necessary to invest in technology, including advanced surveillance, access controls and communication systems to enhance safety.

Sector-specific vulnerabilities:

There are many sectors that will need to review their current activity and ensure compliance with this new regulation once in place for example:

• Holiday parks and amusement parks, being popular public attractions and often bustling with visitors, will need to adapt significantly. Responsibilities will range from improving staff awareness to installing physical security measures such as CCTV, access controls and emergency communication systems.

• Hospitality businesses, whether a hotel, restaurant, bar or event space, will need to take increased responsibility for protecting guests and adopt a culture of vigilance and preparedness, embracing the new requirements to foster a safer environment that reassures customers and staff

• Charities that host events - whether large fundraisers, community gatherings, or awareness campaigns - will need to adapt to the new legal framework and comply with measures, creating a safer environment for attendees, volunteers and staff.

• Educational establishments, including schools, colleges, and universities must focus on minimising risk and increasing awareness to ensure student and staff safety. This specifically applies to institutions operating public-access spaces, including campuses, lecture halls, and event spaces where a capacity threshold is met.

• Religious organisations, often seen as “soft targets” due to their open-door policies, fall within these tiers, depending on their size and the nature of the event. Places of worship, particularly those hosting large congregations, will need to evaluate security infrastructure and emergency preparedness to protect congregants and visitors.

Supporting your organisation

Martyn’s Law represents a significant step forward in safeguarding public spaces. While the new requirements may pose operational challenges, proper planning and collaboration with risk management consultants can ease the transition.

We are here to support your organisation as you navigate these new requirements. Your commitment to public safety is our priority, and we are ready to provide guidance on how Martyn’s Law may impact your organisation. Our team will work with you to understand your current practices & procedures and help you to identify opportunities to improve your readiness for these changes.

To find out more about Martyn’s Law and how PIB can help, please contact us