Arts Council of Wales rolls out Martyn's Law training for the arts sector

The Arts Council of Wales has announced sector-wide training to help arts organisations prepare for the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, known as Martyn's Law. The aim is to build familiarity well ahead of the duties coming into force, which is expected in spring 2027. The exact commencement date is still to be confirmed.

If you run a theatre, gallery, arts centre or community hall, this is a sign that sector bodies are starting to support members with practical preparation. Training like this can help your team understand the two tiers under the Act. Standard tier covers premises where 200 to 799 people may reasonably be expected at the same time, and enhanced tier covers 800 or more. The count includes staff.

The Act does not yet require staff training, and the duties are not enforceable now. Sessions like these are about getting familiar early. They are a helpful way to start conversations with your team rather than a box to tick. Always treat this as preparation, not formal guidance on the law itself.

If you work in the arts in Wales, look out for details of these sessions and consider sending relevant staff. More widely, take time to estimate how many people your premises might hold at once, including staff, so you know which tier you are likely to fall into. The Security Industry Authority will be the regulator, but its notification process is not yet live.