Charities and trustees: why Martyn's Law is a governance job, not just a security one

A legal commentary from law firm Blake Morgan, reported by Local Government Lawyer, looks at how charities should prepare for Martyn's Law alongside their broader governance duties and emerging risks. The piece frames readiness as something trustees and boards should fold into existing risk management, rather than treat as a separate, last-minute task.

Plenty of premises covered by Martyn's Law are run by charities: village and church halls, community centres, museums, heritage sites and places of worship. Where 200 or more people may reasonably be expected at the same time, those premises are likely to fall into scope. The point being made is that preparing is partly a leadership responsibility, so trustees and management committees have a role to play, not just whoever runs the building day to day.

The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025 received Royal Assent in April 2025, but its duties are not in force yet. Commencement is expected in spring 2027, with the exact date still to be confirmed. The Security Industry Authority will regulate it, and its notification process is not yet live. So there is time to get organised calmly.

If your venue is run by a charity, put Martyn's Law on the agenda for trustees or your committee so people understand the likely tier and who will own the work. Start a simple record of your typical attendance and how your spaces are used. Treat this as part of your normal risk planning, and take professional advice where your circumstances are complex. Nothing needs to be finalised today, but early familiarisation makes later steps easier.