From festival fields to city centre stadiums

The Oasis reunion tour has dominated headlines this summer, drawing hundreds of thousands of fans to venues including their homecoming show in Manchester’s Heaton Park and multiple sold-out nights at Wembley Stadium. With additional dates added due to overwhelming demand, the scale of these events highlights the growing complexity of managing public safety at large venues.

For insurance brokers, it’s a timely reminder of the evolving risk landscape and the importance of understanding Martyn’s Law.

Formally known as The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, Martyn’s Law introduces mandatory counter-terrorism measures for public venues across the UK. Named in memory of Martyn Hett, one of the victims of the 2017 Manchester Arena bombing, the legislation aims to ensure that venues are better prepared to prevent and respond to terrorist threats.

The law applies to premises with a capacity of 200 or more people, with enhanced duties for those hosting 800 or more. These include terrorism risk assessments, staff training, and formal security plans. The scope is wide, covering entertainment venues, hospitality spaces, places of worship, and outdoor events—many of which fall within brokers’ client portfolios.

Summer festivals such as Glastonbury, Latitude, and Edinburgh Fringe further illustrate the scale and diversity of events affected by the legislation. These gatherings bring together thousands in open-air settings, where security planning is both challenging and essential.

For brokers, Martyn’s Law changes the conversation around risk management and presents an opportunity to educate clients on their obligations, helping them to understand the practical steps needed to comply. Many venues and organisers may still be unaware of the full scope of the legislation, and brokers are well-positioned to bridge that gap, offering guidance and support.

There is a real threat of non-compliance through lack of knowledge, which could expose clients to legal, financial, and reputational risks. By proactively sharing insights and resources, brokers can demonstrate their value beyond policy placement, enhancing trust and strengthening long-term relationships. This is a chance to lead the conversation, not just react to it.

Reputational risk is a key consideration. Clients who fail to comply with Martyn’s Law may face public scrutiny, especially in the event of a security incident. But brokers who are seen to be proactive - helping clients boost resilience, protect assets, and keep people safe - can position themselves as trusted advisors in a high-stakes environment. It’s no longer just about physical security; it’s about demonstrating preparedness. Brokers have a vital role in helping clients align their risk management programmes to support wider organisational resilience.

To help you and your clients navigate the practical implications of Martyn's Law, we’ve developed a suite of online resources.