In April 2025, Martyn’s Law received Royal Assent, setting in motion one of the most significant shifts in UK public safety legislation. Affecting more than 280,000 venues nationwide, the new law establishes clear legal responsibilities for venue operators to prepare for and mitigate terrorist threats.
At its core, Martyn’s Law introduces a two-tier framework: Standard Tier for venues with capacities between 200 and 799 people, and an Enhanced Tier for those with 800 or more. The requirements range from evacuation and communication procedures through to advanced surveillance and physical security measures. For many operators, this means new systems, staff training, and documented compliance reports will become a legal necessity.
“Martyn’s Law will significantly strengthen public safety across our country,” stated Home Secretary Yvette Cooper when the legislation was passed. “It ensures that lessons learned from Manchester are embedded into how we protect our communities moving forward.”
The impact is far-reaching: 65% of affected sites fall within retail and hospitality, while places of worship, schools, and community facilities also feature heavily in compliance requirements. Notably, even smaller venues cannot afford to delay. With full enforcement beginning in April 2027, early adopters are already securing installers and spreading costs over the implementation period. Those who wait risk higher costs, limited availability of approved providers, and rushed (potentially non-compliant) installations.
For operators, the consequences of non-compliance are significant. Standard Tier fines can reach £10,000, while Enhanced Tier venues may face penalties of up to £18 million or 5% of global turnover. Enforcement will be proactive, with the Security Industry Authority (SIA) empowered to inspect venues with just 72 hours’ notice.
Yet beyond compliance, there are benefits: stronger community confidence, reduced liability, and opportunities for operational efficiency through integrated systems. Forward-looking venues are treating Martyn’s Law as both a legal requirement and a chance to future-proof their operations.
To support the sector, System Q has launched a comprehensive Martyn’s Law Venue Operators Guide, as well as a Security Installers Guide, and continues to advise venues on readiness strategies.
On October 7th, industry experts from System Q will address the most pressing compliance questions in a dedicated online session, tailored for both security installers as well as venue owners and event operators. Register for the free webinar, “Martyn’s Law Compliance: Your Questions Answered,” to gain practical insights, access templates and checklists, and leave with a clear 18-month roadmap to compliance.