Legislation & Compliance
Martyn's Law
The Protect Duty
Martyn's Law — formally the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025 — places a legal duty on those responsible for qualifying venues and events to take steps to protect the public in the event of a terrorist attack. UKSEQ qualifications are being developed to support the workforce training requirements this legislation creates.
The Legislation
Background
Martyn's Law is named after Martyn Hett, one of the 22 people killed in the Manchester Arena attack on 22 May 2017. His mother, Figen Murray OBE, campaigned tirelessly for legislation that would require venues and events to put protective security measures in place.
The Act received Royal Assent in April 2025 and introduces a tiered framework of duties based on the capacity of a venue or event. It is overseen by the Security Industry Authority (SIA), which acts as the regulator for compliance.
Duty Framework
The Two Tiers
The Act establishes two tiers of duty, determined by the capacity of the venue or event:
Standard Duty
Responsible persons must implement reasonably practicable procedural measures — such as staff training, communication procedures and evacuation plans — to protect the public in the event of an attack. No physical or structural changes are required under this tier.
Enhanced Duty
In addition to procedural measures, responsible persons must also carry out a thorough risk assessment and put in place a formal security plan. This tier applies to larger venues and events where the potential impact of an attack is greater.
Sector Impact
Relevance to the Events & Security Sector
Martyn's Law directly affects a wide range of venues and events — including sports stadia, concert halls, festivals, conference centres, places of worship and retail locations. Those responsible for these premises must ensure their staff are trained and prepared.
For the spectator safety and security workforce, this legislation reinforces the importance of formal, recognised qualifications. Trained and qualified staff are better equipped to identify threats, follow procedures and protect the public — and qualifications provide a verifiable record of that competence.
UKSEQ Response
How UKSEQ Qualifications Support Compliance
UKSEQ is developing Level 2 qualifications in Spectator Safety that are directly relevant to the workforce training obligations created by Martyn's Law. Our qualifications are designed to equip front-line staff with the knowledge and skills needed to respond effectively to security threats and emergencies.
Approved Centres delivering UKSEQ qualifications will be able to offer venues and event organisers a structured, quality-assured pathway to meeting their training obligations under the Act — with a recognised qualification as the outcome.
Further Information
Official Guidance
For full details of the legislation, implementation timelines and compliance requirements, refer to the official government guidance published by the Home Office and the Security Industry Authority.
UKSEQ provides this information for general awareness purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice. Responsible persons should seek independent legal guidance on their specific obligations under the Act.