Government Publishes First Official Martyn's Law Guidance for Venues

The government has published official guidance to help organisations get ready for Martyn's Law, the everyday name for the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025. The Act received Royal Assent on 3 April 2025. The new guidance is designed to explain how venues can prepare to protect people from terrorist threats. You can read it in full on GOV.UK using the link provided.

This is a useful early step if you run a pub, church, hall, cinema or event space. The guidance helps you understand which tier your venue may fall into. Standard tier covers premises where 200 to 799 people may reasonably be expected at the same time, including staff. Enhanced tier covers 800 or more. Remember the duties are not yet in force. Commencement is expected in spring 2027, with the exact date still to be confirmed.

There is no need to rush or panic. Take time to read the guidance and work out your likely capacity and tier. Start thinking about how many people use your premises at busy times. Note any gaps in your current arrangements so you can plan ahead calmly over the coming months.

This guidance is to help you familiarise yourself and prepare. It is not a substitute for professional advice on your own situation. The Security Industry Authority will be the regulator, but its notification process is not yet live. Use this period to get comfortable with what is coming, rather than treating it as a deadline.