Church network frames Martyn's Law as an act of care, not just compliance

The Fellowship of Independent Evangelical Churches (FIEC) has shared guidance for its member churches on the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, known as Martyn's Law. The piece encourages churches to see preparing for the Act as an extension of caring for the people in their buildings, rather than a box-ticking chore. It is aimed at wardens, trustees and volunteers who run church premises and events.

Many churches hold services, weddings, funerals, concerts and community events where numbers can rise and fall through the day. Under Martyn's Law, premises where 200 to 799 people may reasonably be expected at the same time fall into the standard tier, and 800 or more into the enhanced tier. The count includes staff and volunteers. If your building rarely reaches 200 at once, the duties may not apply, but it is still worth understanding where you sit.

Nothing is enforceable today. Commencement is expected in spring 2027, and the exact date is still to be confirmed. The Security Industry Authority will be the regulator, and its notification process is not yet live. This gives churches time to familiarise themselves and prepare calmly.

Take a realistic look at how many people gather at your busiest moments across a typical week and any one-off events. Talk it through with your leadership team, wardens and volunteers so everyone understands the coming expectations. Treating readiness as part of your duty of care, as FIEC suggests, is a sensible way to approach it. Follow the link for the full reflection.