Martyn’s Law - also known as the Protect Duty - is set to become one of the most significant pieces of security legislation the UK has seen in decades. Designed to improve public safety and reduce the risk of terrorism, the law will place new legal responsibilities on businesses.
Martyn’s Law – also known as the Protect Duty – is set to become one of the most significant pieces of security legislation the UK has seen in decades. Designed to improve public safety and reduce the risk of terrorism, the law will place new legal responsibilities on businesses, venues, and event organisers to strengthen their security measures and protect the public.
For many organisations, this will mean reviewing existing systems, upgrading outdated equipment, and adopting a more proactive approach to threat management. Understanding what’s coming – and preparing early – will make compliance far easier.
Martyn’s Law is named in memory of Martyn Hett, one of the victims of the 2017 Manchester Arena attack. The legislation aims to ensure that all publicly accessible locations take reasonable steps to improve security and protect people from potential threats.
The law will apply to a wide range of organisations, including:
If your business welcomes the public, Martyn’s Law is likely to affect you.
The UK continues to face a real and evolving threat from terrorism. Many public venues currently have no legal obligation to implement security measures, leaving gaps that can be exploited.
Martyn’s Law aims to close those gaps by requiring organisations to:
The goal is simple: reduce harm, save lives, and ensure venues are not soft targets.
The legislation is expected to introduce two tiers of requirements based on venue capacity.
Standard Tier (100–799 capacity)
Businesses will need to:
Enhanced Tier (800+ capacity)
Larger venues will face stricter requirements, including:
Regardless of tier, the focus is on preparedness, awareness, and practical protection.
Preparing early will help organisations avoid last‑minute costs and disruption. Key steps include:
Many venues rely on outdated CCTV, unmonitored alarms, or basic access control. Martyn’s Law will require more robust, reliable systems that can withstand real‑world threats.
Understanding your vulnerabilities is the first step toward compliance. This includes reviewing:
Bold Security provides professional site assessments to help identify risks and recommend proportionate improvements.
Depending on your venue, this may include:
These measures not only support compliance – they significantly reduce everyday security risks.
Staff need to understand:
Training is a core requirement of Martyn’s Law and will be essential for compliance.
Enhanced‑tier venues will need a detailed plan covering:
Even smaller venues benefit from having a clear, well‑practised response strategy.
Bold Security specialises in protecting high‑risk environments and publicly accessible spaces. Our ex‑military team installs and maintains professional‑grade systems designed to meet the demands of Martyn’s Law.
We provide:
Our goal is to help businesses strengthen their security, protect the public, and meet their legal obligations with confidence.
Martyn’s Law will raise the standard of security across the UK – and businesses that prepare early will be in the strongest position. By reviewing your current systems, identifying vulnerabilities, and implementing proportionate measures, you can protect your staff, your customers, and your organisation.
Where Martyn’s Law Stands in 2026
Martyn’s Law (the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025) received Royal Assent in April 2025. The government confirmed a minimum 24‑month implementation period, meaning:
The Security Industry Authority (SIA) is currently building the inspection and compliance framework, and statutory guidance is due during 2026.
Bold Security is here to help you navigate the changes and build a safer, more resilient environment.