Martyn's Law and Event Security Guidance
Martyn's Law, officially known as the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, aims to improve security and preparedness at public venues and events. Event organisers and venue operators should start preparing now to understand their responsibilities and ensure future events meet the new safety requirements.
What is Martyn's Law?
Martyn's Law became law on 3 April 2025 and is named after Martyn Hett, who was killed in the Manchester Arena attack in 2017. The legislation is designed to help public venues and event organisers reduce risks and improve preparedness for potential terrorist incidents.
What does the law mean for event organisers?
The legislation will apply to certain public events, venues and premises. Those responsible will be required to:
- Understand the threat of terrorism
- Take practical steps to reduce risks
- Prepare emergency response procedures
- Train staff and volunteers
- Have appropriate safety plans in place
The law is expected to come into force around Spring 2027, giving organisations time to prepare. Pendle's Event Safety Advisory Group (ESAG) will begin introducing enhanced requirements into the event application process from September 2026.
What should event organisers do now?
If you organise public events or manage publicly accessible venues, you should begin familiarising yourself with Martyn's Law and consider how your organisation will meet the new requirements.
Learn more about the legislation through the ProtectUK video:
ACT Awareness Training
Pendle ESAG requests that event organisers provide evidence of completing the free ACT Awareness e-Learning course when submitting event applications.
The course helps organisers, staff and volunteers develop counter-terrorism awareness and understand good security practices. Training can be completed online in around one hour. You will need to set up an accout.
Do I need to hire a security consultant?
No.
Most event organisers and venue operators will not need to employ external consultants to comply with Martyn's Law. Government guidance will help organisations determine whether they fall within the scope of the legislation and what actions they need to take.
The Home Office and the National Counter Terrorism Security Office (NaCTSO) do not endorse third-party providers or products for compliance with this legislation.
Additional Resources
- Download the Martyn's Law Myth Buster
- Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025 Factsheets
- Understanding Martyn's Law and the SIA's role as regulator
- Martyn's Law Factsheet
SCaN Training
See, Check and Notify (SCaN) is a free counter-terrorism training programme that helps organisations improve safety and security using existing resources and staff awareness.
The training aims to help organisations identify and respond to a range of threats, including terrorism, criminal activity and unlawful protest.
Find out more:
- Find out more about See, Check and Notify (SCaN)
- Working with Counter Terrorism Security Advisors (CTSAs)
For information about SCaN training in Lancashire, email: ctsa@lancashire.pnn.police.uk
Contact Us
If you require further information about Martyn's Law or event safety requirements, please contact:
Wajed Iqbal
Pendle ESAG Chair
Email: wajed.iqbal@pendle.gov.uk
Julie Mousdale
Events Coordination Officer
Email: julie.mousdale@pendle.gov.uk
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