Martyn’s Law: A New Era for Public Safety in the UK
What Is Martyn’s Law?
On April 3, 2025, the UK made a meaningful advancement in public safety with the passage of the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act, more widely known as Martyn’s Law. This legislation honors the life of Martyn Hett and the 21 others killed in the 2017 Manchester Arena attack, and reflects the tireless advocacy of Martyn’s mother, Figen Murray, whose advocacy helped bring this law to life.
A Tiered Approach to Public Safety Preparedness
Martyn’s Law introduces new legal responsibilities for certain venues and events, requiring them to take appropriate steps to prepare for and respond to the threat of terrorism. Its aim is simple but critical: to ensure public spaces are not just welcoming, but prepared. The law applies a tiered approach based on the size and nature of the venue or event, with expectations ranging from basic public protection procedures to more advanced measures like documented plans, training, and designated responsible individuals.
The legislation acknowledges what security professionals have long understood: preparedness cannot be an afterthought. In an increasingly complex threat environment, it’s not a matter of if, but how we prepare for the unexpected. Martyn’s Law doesn’t prescribe one-size-fits-all solutions, nor does it require the purchase of specific products or services. Instead, it reinforces the need for thoughtful, site-appropriate planning and protocols that can reduce harm in the event of an attack.
This law is a step forward, but it’s also a signal. Although there is a 24-month implementation period, the risks are real now. Martyn’s Law should serve as a catalyst for immediate reflection and action, not a reason to wait. Responsible leaders won’t delay planning simply because the law isn’t yet enforceable. They understand that security isn’t just about compliance; it’s about commitment.
Equally important is the principle of layered security. No single tactic or technology can provide complete protection. Effective safety strategies rely on a combination of awareness, training, infrastructure, and responsiveness. This layered approach is what gives people confidence when they gather and what makes places resilient when tested.
At Evolv, we support Martyn’s Law and the values it represents. We believe in layered security as the foundation of effective safety planning, and we commend the individuals and organizations that are already taking steps to protect their communities. The law may set the standard, but the real impact comes from the choices we make before compliance is required.
