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- The UK government have created a series of fact sheets. It is anticipated further government guidance may take some time before it becomes available. Terrorism is a complex risk that can be very location specific, but a good starting point is to make customers aware of these factsheets if you receive any enquiries.
- For our medium to larger risk policyholders our preferred supplier Blackstone Consultancy, can provide expert fee-paying advice and will undertake a detailed site audit to provide terrorism risk management guidance that is bespoke to the risk. Any suitable customer requests for support should be sent to them at info@blackstoneconsultancy.com or 0203 833 1061.
It is important that organisations that allow members of the public access to their premises, mitigate any terrorist attacks to protect their employees and visitors. If there are existing plans in place, there is no harm in reviewing them to ensure they remain current and relevant.
Key risk considerations include where the property is located, the number of people who visit the venue, the possibility of a neighbouring building being attacked, and if prominent people use the premises or live in the vicinity.
As part of this security review, we would suggest the following:
- There is no harm in reminding employees and/or volunteers to look out for possible suspicious activity. Provide training if needed. Encourage a culture of challenge to anyone acting suspiciously.
- Engage with neighbours, requesting they report any suspicious activity to the police immediately.
- It is sensible to regularly review evacuation and any lockdown procedures, so if a terrorism event occurs, the organisation is ready.
- Seek support from the local counter-terrorism police about protection arrangements.
- Ensure the building perimeter is secured by suitable physical and electronic protections (door and window locks, grilles/bars, fire/intruder alarms, CCTV systems & external security lighting).
- Manage vehicle access to any car parking areas.
- Review external housekeeping arrangements, for example, keep waste bins away from the building and remove any litter, repair any damage from vandalism without delay, and ensure the building is not concealed by vegetation or overgrown trees.
- When holding special events that could increase the risk of a terrorist attack, it may be sensible to review existing arrangements and identify if further precautions are needed.
Check the terrorism threat level in your sector
Pool RE has developed sector-specific assessments to help you understand the potential level of threat to your organisation.
Frequently asked questions
Martyn’s Law is the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, which introduces practical steps for venues to improve preparedness and help keep people safe from terrorist incidents.
It is named in memory of Martyn Hett, one of the victims of the 2017 Manchester Arena attack. The law helps honour victims by strengthening safety at public venues.
Yes. All places of worship are automatically considered Standard Tier premises, regardless of capacity or the size of typical gatherings.
Standard Tier responsibilities focus on procedural measures, not expensive physical security. Required procedures include:
- Evacuation
- Invacuation
- Lockdown
- Communication
- Training and awareness for staff and volunteers
Depending on your tier requirements, it's possible that you may need to take additional proportionate measures, but check the official Home Office Martyn’s Law guidance on ProtectUK. Their guidance is updated periodically.
In many instances, and for all churches and places of worship, the focus is on procedural measures, for example, practical planning and training, rather than physical changes or electronic security.
- Standard Duty Premises: 200–799 people may be present, including all places of worship.
- Enhanced Duty Premises: 800+ people may be present.
- Below 100 capacity: Out of scope, though good practice is encouraged.
We understand from Home Office guidance that the implementation period will be 24 months. This includes establishing the regulator function within the Security Industry Authority (SIA), as well as ensuring there is time for Churches and affected organisations to prepare for the legislation coming into force. We will keep you updated as further information becomes available via our website.
The Security Industry Authority (SIA) will support organisations during rollout and will oversee compliance and enforcement from April 2027 onward. Their initial role is to provide guidance and encouragement.
Martyn’s Law should be aligned with existing Fire Risk Assessments, ensuring one clear, integrated emergency response plan.
While Standard Tier only requires procedural steps, churches are encouraged to build a positive preparedness culture by:
- Running live drills
- Working with local emergency services
- Investing time in training and awareness
- These actions strengthen community safety and confidence.