Martyn's Law - a Reminder

Support and Guidance

To assist with implementation, the National Counter Terrorism Security Office (NaCTSO) is developing a Competent Person Scheme (CPS). Although participation in the scheme is not mandatory, it aims to equip individuals within in-scope organisations with the knowledge and skills needed to meet the law’s requirements. Further details about the CPS are expected as development continues.

What is Martyn's Law?

Following the tragic 2017 Manchester Arena terrorist attack that claimed 22 lives, new legislation aimed at enhancing public safety at venues and events has been passed into law. Known as the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, or more commonly Martyn’s Law, the Act received Royal Assent on 3 April 2025 after passing through both Houses of Parliament.

The Act imposes a legal duty on certain premises and events to take steps to reduce the risk of physical harm from terrorist attacks. Whilst those that fall within scope of the Act may wish to consider the requirements, there is no requirement to comply with them until the legislation comes into force. The Home Office will publish statutory guidance during the 24-month implementation period. This guidance will assist those responsible to understand the requirements set out in the legislation.

How Does it Affect Schools?

The Bill applies to all educational establishments where 200 or more individuals are reasonably expected to be present at any one time. This includes:

• Primary and secondary schools;

• Further education colleges; and

• Higher education institutions (HEIs).

How Are Premises Classified?

Martyn’s Law introduces a tiered system based on the number of people typically on-site:

Standard Duty Premises (200–799 people)

• Most schools and colleges fall under this category;

• Must register with the regulator and implement basic “public protection procedures”;

• These include evacuation, lockdown, invacuation, and communication plans;

• No physical security alterations are required; and

• Applies to all schools and colleges, even if their actual capacity exceeds 800.

Enhanced Duty Premises (800+ people)

• Applies to larger venues such as universities and some event spaces;

• Must implement additional security measures, including:

• Monitoring vulnerabilities;

• Controlling sensitive information (e.g., site maps);

• Assigning a senior responsible individual; and

• Submitting compliance documentation to the Security Industry Authority (SIA.)

Important Note: The Bill specifically exempts schools and colleges from enhanced duty requirements, regardless of size. However, higher education institutions are subject to both standard and enhanced tiers, depending on scale.

Why It Matters

Martyn’s Law represents a significant shift in the UK’s approach to counter-terrorism in public spaces. It recognises the evolving nature of threats and places clear responsibility on organisations to be prepared and resilient.

As the Home Office rolls out the implementation phase, businesses and event organisers are urged to begin assessing their responsibilities under the new law and take proactive steps to strengthen their protective measures.

Martyn’s Law has long been called for by campaigners and victims' families—and now marks a turning point in how public safety is addressed across the UK.

How Can Handsam Help?

Handsam now offer strategic reviews to assist clients in Critical Incident/Emergency Planning which takes into account all the requirements of Martyn's Law.

As an example, one MAT recently commissioned Handsam to review its provision for Critical Incident/Emergency Planning, which led to a much-revised policy being produced, taking not account the trust's current management structures, with training being delivered to ensure all relevant personnel were aware of the new procedures.

Clients can download our guidance documents from the Handsam Website:

• S14 Martyn’s Law: What Schools Need to Know

• S16: Martyn’s Law Compliance Checklist

If you would like to discuss your Critical Incident/Emergency Planning or review requirements, then please contact Handsam's client support team via info@handsam.co.uk. We look forward to hearing from you.