Understanding Martyn’s Law and Your Legal Duty to Prepare

In response to rising threats and the tragic events of the 2017 Manchester Arena attack, the UK government is introducing Martyn’s Law (also known as the Protect Duty). This legislation places a new legal requirement on certain public venues and organisations to take proactive steps in preventing and preparing for terrorist attacks. Is your business ready?

What Is Martyn’s Law?

Martyn’s Law is named in memory of Martyn Hett, one of the 22 people killed in the Manchester Arena bombing. His mother, Figen Murray, campaigned tirelessly for stronger legislation to ensure that venues and public spaces take reasonable steps to keep the public safe from terrorist threats.

The law aims to ensure that those responsible for publicly accessible locations (PALs) are prepared to respond effectively to potential attacks. This includes everything from emergency evacuation plans to staff training and counter-terrorism awareness.

Who Does Martyn’s Law Apply To?

Martyn’s Law applies to a wide range of venues and organisations in the UK that have “publicly accessible locations” such as:

• Entertainment venues
• Shops and shopping centres
• Places of worship
• Sports stadiums and arenas
• Educational institutions
• Healthcare facilities
• Hospitality venues and nightclubs
• Transport hubs

The law will apply to premises with a capacity of 100 people or more (Standard tier), and 800 or more (Enhanced tier), each with specific duties to comply with.

What Are Your Legal Duties Under Martyn’s Law?

The proposed law sets out five key requirements:

1. Undertake a terrorism risk assessment – Identify potential threats and vulnerabilities.
2. Implement mitigation measures – Physical, procedural, and training-based.
3. Train staff appropriately – Ensure employees know how to respond in the event of an attack.
4. Have a clear response plan – Including lockdown or evacuation procedures.
5. Cooperate with local authorities – Share information and work collaboratively to enhance preparedness.

Failure to comply may result in enforcement action, civil penalties, and reputational damage.

Why Staff Training Is Essential

People are the first line of defence. Martyn’s Law places emphasis on ensuring that all staff members receive Protect Duty training relevant to their role. This can include:

• Identifying suspicious behaviour
• Recognising potential threats (e.g., unattended bags, hostile reconnaissance)
• Following site-specific security procedures
• Initiating lockdowns or evacuations
• Reporting incidents quickly and accurately

Training isn’t just a legal box-tick – it’s about saving lives.

How ProTrainings Can Help

At ProTrainings Europe Ltd, we’ve developed a dedicated Martyn’s Law training course to help businesses and venues across the UK prepare for the new legislation. Our course is delivered through engaging video modules and covers:

• The background and purpose of Martyn’s Law
• Legal duties and compliance requirements
• How to carry out a terrorism risk assessment
• Practical response planning and staff actions

Start Martyn’s Law Training

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

Martyn’s Law is expected to come into force soon, and public scrutiny will be high. Forward-thinking organisations are already preparing. Whether your site falls under the Standard or Enhanced tier, starting now will help you stay compliant—and protect lives.

Be ready. Be responsible. Protect the public.

Contact us for tailored advice, training, and support to meet Martyn’s Law requirements.