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Martyn’s Law guidance published to help businesses

16 April 2026

New guidance published to help organisations and businesses prepare for terrorist threats and protect lives.

Major venues and events will be better equipped to protect the public from terrorism, as new guidance to support the implementation of Martyn’s Law is published today.

The guidance sets out clear steps for businesses. This includes for smaller premises like shops and restaurants with 200-799 people, to ensure evacuation routes are in place, staff know how to swiftly implement a lockdown in their building, and staff know how to quickly communicate with their customers were an attack to occur.

Larger premises and events like concerts and sports stadiums, where 800 or more people will be present, will be required to take further steps to reduce their vulnerability to acts of terrorism – such as having CCTV, bag search policies, or vehicle checks where appropriate.

The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025 also known as Martyn’s Law, is named in tribute to Martyn Hett, one of the 22 victims of the horrific Manchester arena attack.

The act will come into effect after an implementation period of at least 24 months from Royal Assent, giving organisations time to understand their new obligations and prepare.