The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025 is commonly known as Martyn’s Law. Official GOV.UK guidance explains that the Act is intended to improve organisational preparedness and protective security across the UK.
This article is a practical overview for businesses. It does not provide legal advice and should not be used as a substitute for official guidance.
Why Businesses Should Pay Attention
Many organisations operate premises or events where members of the public, visitors, contractors, staff or guests may be present. Even where exact legal duties need to be checked carefully, the underlying principles are useful for good operational management.
Preparedness is not about creating alarm. It is about understanding the environment, agreeing responsibilities and making sure people know what to do if something unusual or serious occurs.
Start With Official Guidance
Businesses should use the official GOV.UK guidance as the starting point for understanding the Act, scope, responsibilities and any notification requirements.
The current official collection is available at GOV.UK: Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025. The statutory guidance is available at GOV.UK statutory guidance for the Act.
Important: official guidance may be updated. Businesses should always check GOV.UK for the latest legal position and seek professional advice where appropriate.
Six Practical Areas To Review
Know Whether You May Be In Scope
Review official guidance to understand whether your premises or event may fall within the Act and which responsibilities may apply.
Understand Expected Numbers
Visitor numbers, event attendance and how people use the space are important when considering preparedness and proportionate measures.
Review Movement And Access
Look at entrances, exits, queues, restricted areas, deliveries and contractor access so practical arrangements are understood.
Strengthen Communication
Staff should understand who to contact, how to raise concerns and how key messages would be shared during an incident.
Keep Records Current
Emergency contacts, procedures, assignment instructions and review notes should be kept clear, current and easy to find.
Use Proportionate Support
Security support should be planned around the environment, not added in a way that disrupts normal operations unnecessarily.
Preparedness Is Wider Than Guarding
Professional security officers can play an important role, but effective preparedness is wider than visible guarding. It includes planning, training, reporting, escalation routes and communication with staff and stakeholders.
For example, a venue may need clearer visitor management, a stronger handover process or better staff awareness before it needs additional physical security.
Common Misunderstandings
| Misunderstanding | Better Approach |
|---|---|
| Security is only about officers at the door. | Security also includes planning, procedures, training, reporting and clear escalation. |
| One generic plan will work for every site. | Each premises or event should be reviewed according to its own layout, use and risks. |
| Preparedness should disrupt normal business. | Good security should support normal operations wherever possible. |
| Once a procedure is written, the work is finished. | Procedures should be reviewed, communicated and updated as circumstances change. |
Business Preparedness Checklist
How SSG Can Support
SSG Securities can support organisations with practical security discussions, site reviews, event security planning, corporate security services, professional officers, access-control support and reporting arrangements.
Support is planned through SSG’s structured delivery process and should always be shaped around the premises, event, people and operating environment. Businesses can also review case studies or learn more about SSG Securities.
Need support reviewing your security arrangements?
Speak to SSG Securities about practical security support for your organisation, premises or event.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this article legal advice?
No. It is general information only. Businesses should refer to official GOV.UK guidance and seek professional legal advice where required.
Does Martyn’s Law apply to every business?
Not necessarily. Scope depends on the legislation and the specific premises, event or activity. Official guidance should be checked before decisions are made.
What should businesses do first?
Start by understanding your premises, visitor numbers, access arrangements, staff roles and current emergency procedures.
Is security only about employing more officers?
No. Preparedness can include planning, communication, staff awareness, access control, reporting and review.
Can SSG provide legal compliance certification?
No. SSG can support operational security planning and service delivery, but does not provide legal compliance certification.
Final Thought
Martyn’s Law should encourage businesses to think clearly about preparedness, communication and proportionate security arrangements.
The strongest starting point is a practical review of the environment, supported by official guidance and clear professional advice where needed.