Preparing for Martyn’s Law: How UK Venues Can Get Ready and How CST Supports Compliance
What is Martyn’s Law?
In April 2025, the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, known as Martyn’s Law, received Royal Assent and is set to become a pivotal requirement for many UK businesses and public venues. The legislation was introduced in memory of Martyn Hett, one of the 22 victims of the 2017 Manchester Arena bombing.
The new law is designed to enhance public safety by requiring qualifying premises and events to be better prepared for potential terrorist threats. For the first time, these security standards are not optional, they are becoming a legal obligation.
Who is Affected?
Martyn’s Law applies to any UK venue or event where at least 200 people at one time. Affected venues include:
The law will be applied in a tiered system, based on venue size and capacity:
The Security Industry Authority (SIA) will oversee enforcement, offering guidance, support, and carrying out inspections to ensure compliance.
Why is this Different?
Previously, terrorism preparedness in the UK was left largely to the discretion of each venue, leading to inconsistent planning and protection. Martyn’s Law changes that by introducing standardised, mandatory measures across all relevant premises.
It brings a national framework to counter-terrorism risk management and ensures that public venues are not only prepared but also supported through the SIA’s new regulatory function.
What Happens Next?
Although the law has received Royal Assent, it will not come into full effect immediately. The Government has outlined a 24-month implementation period, allowing businesses and venues to:
- Understand and meet the requirements
- Conduct risk assessments
- Introduce training and emergency plans
- Install or upgrade communication and alert systems
- Engage with technology providers to support compliance
Guidance documents and updates will be published on GOV.UK as the law moves closer to enforcement.
How we can help:
Emergency Call and Alert Systems
- Instantly notify security, staff, or emergency services of a potential threat
- Silent alert functions for discreet communication
- Integration with fire and lockdown systems
Paging Systems
- Secure, site-wide messaging for staff coordination
- Can be used for evacuation or lockdown procedures
- Ideal for venues needing fast, reliable communication without relying on mobile networks
Real-Time Alarm Management
- Centralised platforms to manage multiple emergency alerts
- Helps ensure a calm, coordinated response during high-pressure situations
- Includes escalation protocols and audit trails for post-incident reporting
Staff Safety and Lone Worker Systems
- Support for vulnerable staff and isolated roles
- Panic buttons and location tracking options
Training and Support
- We work closely with venues to provide tailored training and ongoing system support
- Consultation available to help design or upgrade safety communication plans in line with Martyn’s Law
Let CST Help You Stay Prepared
With Martyn’s Law becoming reality, now is the time for venues to evaluate their emergency preparedness strategy. CST is here to support businesses through:
Expert advice on compliance and best practices
Reliable, scalable technology built for emergency situations
Ongoing service, maintenance, and updates
Trusted by Leading UK Venues
CST is proud to support some of the UK’s most high-profile venues and institutions in their safety and communication strategies. Our clients include the O2 Arena, Madame Tussauds, Edinburgh Airport, the University of Sussex, along with ASDA and John Lewis stores and distribution centres, all of whom trust CST to deliver reliable solutions that enhance their emergency preparedness and operational resilience.
Whether you’re a school, theatre, arena, hotel or conference centre, CST has the expertise and technology to help you navigate Martyn’s Law with confidence.