As Martyn’s Law has now officially become law, local businesses in the entertainment, hospitality, and childcare sectors are required to prepare for significant changes to their security protocols. The legislation, which received Royal Assent, aims to safeguard public venues from the growing threat of terrorism and will start having an immediate impact on venues and organisations that host large crowds.
Named in honour of Martyn Hett, one of the victims of the 2017 Manchester Arena bombing, Martyn’s Law is designed to enhance public safety by imposing clear security requirements on venues that attract large numbers of people. The law will affect businesses across several sectors, with the entertainment and hospitality industries being particularly impacted.
Also known as the Protect Duty, Martyn’s Law mandates that certain venues implement enhanced security protocols, such as conducting risk assessments, training staff in counter-terrorism procedures, and developing emergency response plans.
The law applies to any venue or organisation that regularly hosts more than 200 people. For businesses in the entertainment and hospitality sectors, this includes venues such as music halls, pubs, theatres, and sports stadiums. In the childcare sector, nurseries and after-school clubs will also need to meet these new security standards, automatically falling under the standard tier requirements, regardless of the number of children in attendance.
For businesses in the entertainment and hospitality sectors, Martyn’s Law means substantial changes to security infrastructure. Venues will now be legally required to implement more rigorous safety measures, including installing advanced surveillance systems, hiring additional security personnel, and reinforcing entry protocols. Staff will also need to undergo training to recognise and respond appropriately to potential threats.
“Many larger venues have already taken steps to improve their security, but Martyn’s Law now makes these measures a legal requirement for all qualifying businesses. It’s essential that businesses prepare not just to meet these new obligations, but to ensure a safe and secure environment for everyone.”
1705 Consultancy Ltd., which specialises in risk assessments and security planning, continues to support businesses in navigating these changes. The firm offers a range of services, including security audits, staff training, and the creation of tailored security plans to ensure full compliance with the new legislation.
Although childcare providers typically do not host large public events, they will also be affected by the new law. Venues that provide care for children, such as nurseries, children’s centres, and after-school clubs, will need to implement the new security measures.
While the security requirements for childcare providers will differ from those in the entertainment and hospitality sectors, the law will still require these businesses to review their safeguarding procedures and ensure staff are trained to respond to potential security threats. Childcare providers will need to adapt their practices to ensure the safety of the children in their care.
Now that the law has received Royal Assent and is officially in effect, businesses across all affected sectors are urged to act quickly. Non-compliance with the new security measures could result in significant fines, legal action, or damage to a business’s reputation. However, experts believe that with the right preparation and support, businesses can mitigate these risks and smoothly integrate the new security standards.
“Adapting to these new requirements will take time, and businesses should begin preparations immediately. The goal is not only to ensure legal compliance but to create safer environments for both staff and customers.”
For those in the entertainment, hospitality, and childcare sectors, the time to assess security measures and implement necessary upgrades is now. With the proper guidance, businesses can navigate the challenges posed by Martyn’s Law effectively.
For more information, please contact our Head of Policy, Iain McNab.
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07.04.2025
