Martyn’s Law, so named after Martyn Hett, one of the 22 victims of the Manchester Arena bombing is a law due to come into effect in proposed legislation in the United Kingdom aimed at enhancing public safety by requiring venues and public spaces to implement measures against terrorist attacks. It is named in memory of Martyn Hett, one of the 22 people killed in the 2017 Manchester Arena bombing. The law was inspired by efforts from his mother, Figen Murray, who campaigned for stronger security protocols at public venues following the attack.
Key Points of Martyn’s Law:
- Scope and Applicability:
- The law applies to publicly accessible locations, including concert venues, shopping centers, stadiums, and public transportation hubs. It covers both large venues with high capacity and smaller spaces with a lower visitor threshold, though requirements vary by venue size and risk level.
- Required Security Measures:
- Risk Assessments: Venues are required to conduct assessments to identify potential threats and vulnerabilities specific to their sites.
- Staff Training: Staff members are to be trained to recognize and respond to suspicious behavior, increasing preparedness for potential threats.
- Security Plans: Each venue must create a documented security plan with procedures for preventing and responding to terrorist incidents.
- Emergency Preparedness: Venues are required to have clear, practiced emergency protocols, including evacuation procedures and communication strategies during an attack.
- Government Support and Resources:
- The UK government is expected to provide resources, guidance, and training to help organizations and venues comply with Martyn’s Law, particularly for smaller venues with limited security budgets.
- Encouragement of a Culture of Security:
- Martyn’s Law seeks to promote a proactive approach to security, encouraging venues to be vigilant and prepared rather than reactive. It fosters a mindset where public safety is seen as everyone’s responsibility, improving overall awareness and preparedness.
Goals and Impact:
Martyn’s Law aims to reduce the likelihood of terrorist attacks by strengthening preventive security measures and raising public awareness. It also aims to improve incident response, ensuring that venues can act quickly and effectively to protect lives if an attack does occur. By mandating security standards, the law seeks to balance public enjoyment of accessible spaces with the need for safety in a world where public spaces can sometimes be targeted by threats.
I have made a note to have a word with our legal team to ascertain the obligation of this on SME business premises; why you might ask? I think people will need to check whether this applies to people who have premises such as garden centres and cafes etc.
