Stricter Penalties for Terrorist Attack Preparation: Proposal for "Martyn's Law"
Title: Variations Bring Terrorism Prevention Measures to UK Venues: A Guide for Clubs and Sports Fraternities
Get ready for a change in the safety landscape! The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, popularly known as "Martyn's Law," has received the Royal Assent on 3 April, promising enhanced protection and readiness against terrorist attacks across the UK. This legislation will require certain venues and events to have practical plans in place for responding to terrorism incidents.
The Scoop
If your venue can accommodate more than 200 people, here's what you'll be expected to do:
- Inform a new regulatory body about your premises.
- Implement straightforward procedures for your staff to follow in case of a terrorist attack, whether it happens within your location or nearby.
To ensure fairness and practicality, especially for smaller sports clubs and venues, the RYA has collaborated with the Sport and Recreation Alliance. Thanks to their input, several recommendations have been adopted, and we’ll keep advocating for the government on this law.
Club Action Plan
- Remain Calm - The Act isn't set to kick off for at least 24 months.
- Await Official Guidance - This will be shared once the new regulator is established.
- Prepare for Low-Cost Requirements - Expect essential tasks such as risk assessments and staff awareness training, not significant security upgrades or new equipment.
At the moment, the Home Office and National Counter Terrorism Security Office (NaCTSO) haven't endorsed any third-party products or services for compliance. So, be skeptical of any unsolicited compliance offers.
As more information comes to light, we recommend staying updated through ProtectUK and Gov.UK.
In Depth
The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, also called "Martyn's Law," aims to bolster security and organizational readiness across the UK. Under the Act, large venues that can host over 200 individuals will be required to notify the new regulator, and have appropriate procedures for all premises staff to follow in case a terrorist attack occurs within their premises or nearby.
RYA's Involvement
Working in synergy with the Sports and Recreation Alliance, the RYA has been in discussions with the Government to guarantee that the new law remains proportionate and minimally disruptive to smaller clubs and sports venues. A number of our recommendations have been acknowledged, and we're staying engaged with the Government as the law is implemented. At the present, a great deal remains to be determined, and it's important to note that neither the Home Office nor NaCTSO have sanctioned any third-party compliance products or providers. Further guidance will be provided once more details become clear.
Implications for Your Club
The Act is expected to be in effect after a 24-month implementation period during which the Government will establish a new regulator and issue guidance.
The anticipated requirements will be minimal, probably including conducting risk assessments and training staff, without involving costly alterations to your premises or requisitioning specialized equipment. Beware of any third-parties promising compliance services.
The RYA will keep you informed as more information is released by the Government. In the meantime, it might be beneficial to follow updates from Protect UK and Gov.UK.
- Preparing for the implementation of Martyn's Law, sports clubs and venues should anticipate a need to have practical plans in place for responding to potential terrorist attacks, especially those accommodating more than 200 people.
- For the upcoming changes, smaller sports clubs and venues can expect minimal requirements such as risk assessments and staff training, rather than significant security upgrades or new equipment.
