Martyn’s Law: A turning point for UK Venue Security and the Security Industry
For the UK security industry, Martyn’s Law represents not just a challenge but a significant opportunity to reinforce the importance of well-trained personnel and professional security planning.
Public safety has always been a paramount concern, particularly in an era where threats to crowded spaces are an ever-present reality. Martyn’s Law, a landmark piece of legislation currently making its way through Parliament, seeks to mandate more stringent security measures at public venues.
The Origins and Purpose of Martyn’s Law
Martyn’s Law is named after Martyn Hett, one of the 22 victims of the Manchester Arena terrorist attack in 2017. His mother, Figen Murray, has been the driving force behind the campaign to introduce stronger security obligations for venues and event organisers. The primary aim of the legislation is to ensure that venues, regardless of size, have appropriate counter-terrorism plans in place to protect the public.
The law will impose a tiered approach, with requirements scaled according to venue capacity. Smaller venues will need to conduct basic risk assessments and staff training, while larger venues will be subject to more rigorous obligations, including detailed security plans and emergency response measures.
As Mike Reddington, Chief Executive of the British Security Industry Association (BSIA), states: “The primary objective of Martyn’s Law is to improve the security and safety of the public who attend venues and events, and the BSIA and its members support this positive step.”
The Current Status in Parliament
Martyn’s Law is progressing through the legislative process, with broad cross-party support reflecting its critical importance.
With the draft bill now under consultation, industry stakeholders are closely monitoring developments. Venue operators, security companies, and technology providers alike are preparing for the law’s imminent arrival by evaluating their security strategies and exploring new ways to ensure compliance.
Implications for Venue Operators
For venue operators, Martyn’s Law introduces new responsibilities that will require careful planning and investment.
Key obligations will include:
- Conducting risk assessments to identify vulnerabilities.
- Training staff to recognise and respond to security threats.
- Implementing proportionate security measures, from bag checks to surveillance systems.
- Preparing detailed response plans for emergencies.
This shift means that security will no longer be an afterthought but a fundamental part of venue management. As Mario Garcia, Managing Director of Achilleus Security, warns: “Too often, security and stewarding personnel are seen as just ‘boots on the ground’, and far too often we see the marketplace driving the race to the bottom on the cheapest price — at what cost? It’s always going to be at the expense of safety and security, causing poor training, development, and screening – that is something we have always refused to cut corners on.
“Hopefully, [Martyn’s Law] will push security and stewarding to the forefront of event planning and event/venue safety and reinforce the value of highly trained personnel on site”.
Opportunities for the Security Industry
While compliance with Martyn’s Law may initially seem like an additional burden, for professional security companies it presents an unparalleled opportunity to demonstrate their value. Demand for highly trained personnel, strategic risk assessments, and consultancy services is set to rise, and companies that invest in expertise rather than just manpower will be in high demand.
As Dean Newman, Managing Director of Newman Events, points out: “Enhancing public safety is always a win. Martyn’s Law presents a key opportunity for companies such as mine to leverage their expertise in event security, crowd management and risk mitigation, providing consultancy to help venues meet the new legal standards.”
Security firms that position themselves as trusted advisors rather than just service providers will benefit the most. The law underscores the need for venues to work closely with professionals who can provide tailored security strategies rather than relying on the lowest bidder.
Jonathan Neal, Head of Risk & Counter Terrorism, SAFECROWDS, says: “We strongly support and welcome the arrival of Martyn’s Law and firmly believe it will not only enhance public safety across many venues, but it will bring security and safety awareness to the forefront of those who might previously not have thought to consider it. Ensuring that publicly accessible locations up and down the country now have a duty of care towards protecting their staff, visitors and the public from the threat of terrorism is a positive legacy to emerge from the tragedy of the Manchester Arena attack.”
Technology and Workforce Management in the new security landscape
For security providers, managing a well-trained workforce will become even more critical. Compliance with Martyn’s Law will require detailed documentation of training, qualifications, and on-the-ground deployment, all of which can be streamlined through workforce management technology.
Workforce management software for the security industry can support companies in adapting to regulatory changes. Leigh Charles, Partnerships Director at Guardhouse, says: “ We are continually adapting our software to meet the changing requirements of our customers; this includes responding to regulatory changes. We’ll be keeping a close eye on Martyn’s Law to see how we can best support the industry in meeting any new obligations.”
Conclusion: A defining moment for the Industry
Martyn’s Law is set to reshape the security landscape in the UK, moving security from a secondary concern to an integral part of venue operations. While the new regulations will require investment and adaptation, they also highlight the need for a well-trained, highly professional security workforce.
For security companies, this is a moment to step forward – not just as service providers, but as experts in risk assessment, planning, and implementation. Those that prioritise training, strategic consultancy, and technology-driven workforce management will find themselves at the forefront of a safer, more security-conscious industry.
Rather than being seen as a compliance challenge, Martyn’s Law should be embraced as a catalyst for raising standards, improving public safety, and ensuring that security professionals are valued for their expertise – not just their presence. The future of the industry depends on it.
Sam de Lange
General Manager UK
