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The introduction of Martyn’s Law marks a significant step forward in strengthening public safety across the UK’s venues and events sector. As organisations begin preparing for the implementation of the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, understanding the evolving regulatory landscape will be essential for anyone involved in meetings, conferences, events and venue procurement.
Martyn’s Law was introduced following the tragic Manchester Arena terrorist attack in 2017, in which 22 people lost their lives, including Martyn Hett. Martyn’s mother, Figen Murray OBE, led the Martyn’s Law Campaign Team and campaigned for the introduction of the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act. The legislation aims to improve preparedness and protective security measures at publicly accessible premises and events across the UK.
The Act places legal responsibilities on those responsible for qualifying premises and events to ensure appropriate procedures and measures are in place to reduce the risk and impact of a terrorist attack.
On 15th April 2026, the Home Office published its Section 27 statutory guidance, providing organisations with detailed information on the requirements of the legislation and what they will need to do to comply once the Act comes into force. The guidance has been designed to help those responsible understand whether their premises or events fall within scope and what proportionate measures may be required.
The Security Industry Authority (SIA) has been appointed as the regulator for Martyn’s Law. Alongside the publication of the Home Office guidance, the SIA launched a public consultation on its draft Section 12 statutory guidance on 15th April 2026. This consultation sets out how the SIA proposes to exercise its regulatory powers and oversee compliance with the legislation.
Importantly, the Section 12 guidance is not about what venues and event organisers must do to comply. Instead, it explains how the SIA intends to regulate the sector, monitor compliance, use its powers and support organisations affected by the legislation. The consultation is currently engaging with venues, event organisers and industry stakeholders to help shape the final regulatory approach.
One of the key messages emerging from the consultation is that the SIA intends to adopt a supportive, proportionate and risk-based approach to regulation. The focus is very much on education, engagement and helping organisations understand their responsibilities rather than seeking to catch people out. The regulator has repeatedly emphasised that improving public safety is the primary objective and that extensive guidance and support will be available throughout the implementation period.
To support compliance, the SIA is developing a dedicated online portal that those managing qualifying premises and events will use to:
The SIA has confirmed that this portal is not yet live and is expected to be available in early 2027. Guidance on how the portal will operate is still being developed, and the regulator will be seeking volunteers from across the sector to help test the system before its wider rollout.
While Martyn’s Law is widely expected to come into force around spring 2027, potentially close to the anniversary of the Manchester Arena attack, some uncertainty remains around notification processes for large events and how much lead time venues and organisers will have to submit information through the new portal.
With the portal scheduled for release in early 2027, there is likely to be a relatively short period between the launch of the system and the commencement of the legislation. This could create a significant catch-up period as venues and event organisers work to complete notifications and demonstrate compliance.
The good news is that the SIA recognises these challenges and has indicated that it intends to work collaboratively with industry stakeholders throughout the transition period.
For organisations that regularly book meetings, conferences and events, now is the ideal time to:
Although compliance is not yet legally required, early preparation will help ensure a smoother transition once the legislation comes into force in spring 2027.
For the latest official guidance and resources, visit:
As implementation plans continue to develop, Inntel remains actively engaged with the SIA and industry associations to keep customers informed of any significant updates that may affect venue sourcing, meetings management and event delivery.
Sharon Bannister is Head of MICE Sales & Account Management at Inntel and joined the company in 2026. Sharon has worked in the meetings, incentives, conference and events industry for more than 20 years. She is the past MICE Chair of the Business Travel Association (BTA) and board member of the Meetings Industry Association (mia).
All information was accurate at the time of publication. However, timeframes and details may be subject to change as developments progress.
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