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Understanding Martyn’s Law: Implications for companies in the UK and how Marsh can help

Discover how Martyn’s Law impacts UK venues and events. Get insights on security measures, risk management, insurance changes, and Marsh’s expert guidance.
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By Edward Smith , 

Vice President - War and Terrorism Broker, Bowring Marsh

12/12/2025 · 3 minute read

What is Martyn’s Law?

Martyn’s Law, officially known as the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, is a legislative proposal introduced in the UK to strengthen public safety and security at venues and events where 200 or more people may be present.

The law seeks to impose a duty of care on venue operators and event organisers to implement proportionate security measures to protect the public from terrorist acts and threats.

The legislation is designed to ensure that venues — such as concert halls, sports stadiums, shopping centres, and other public spaces — take proactive steps to assess risks, develop security plans, and coordinate with law enforcement agencies. Currently, a two-year implementation period follows the legislation’s Royal Assent in April 2025, allowing businesses time to prepare for compliance. However, once fully enacted, it will become a mandatory requirement for a wide range of venues to comply with the law. This enforcement will be carried out through inspections via the Security Industry Authority (SIA), with expected penalties for non-compliance.

The impact on companies from an insurance perspective

The introduction of Martyn’s Law will likely have significant implications for companies, particularly in terms of risk management and insurance. As venues and event organisers are required to maintain enhanced security protocol standards, their risk profiles may potentially change, influencing their insurance needs and their associated costs.

Companies will likely need to invest in security measures, including surveillance systems, access controls, staff training, and emergency response plans. These investments can lead to increased operational costs, but they will be key to compliance and enhanced public safety. From an insurance perspective, insurers will likely reassess the risk exposure of venues, potentially adjusting coverage terms and premiums based on the security measures implemented.

Liability coverage is expected to remain a focus, as companies can continue to face legal and financial liabilities if they fail to meet the new standards or if an incident occurs despite compliance.

Finally, the law emphasises the importance of risk mitigation and preparedness, which may positively influence insurance terms. Companies that demonstrate proactive security planning and compliance may benefit from more favourable coverage conditions and premium discounts.

How Marsh can help organisations prepare for Martyn’s Law

Marsh is well-positioned to support clients in conducting thorough risk assessments, either internally or with tailored offerings to help organisations to understand vulnerabilities and develop effective security plans. Available solutions can provide expertise in designing and implementing security protocols, staff training programmes, and emergency response procedures aligned with best practices and legal requirements. In addition, Marsh can advise on insurance solutions to cover new and evolving risks associated with enhanced security measures. Each element can include regular reviews and updates, ultimately helping organisations stay compliant as the legislation evolves.

Enhancing venue safety

Martyn’s Law represents a significant step in the UK’s approach to increasing public safety and venue security. While it introduces new responsibilities for companies, it also offers an opportunity to strengthen risk management practices and demonstrate a commitment to public safety. By partnering with Marsh, organisations can proactively prepare for these changes, promoting compliance, safeguarding their premises, and maintaining resilience in an increasingly security-conscious environment.

For more information, please contact your Marsh representative.

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The information contained herein is based on sources we believe reliable and should be understood to be general risk management and insurance information only. The information is not intended to be taken as advice with respect to any individual situation and cannot be relied upon as such.

Statements concerning legal, tax or accounting matters should be understood to be general observations based solely on our experience as insurance brokers and risk consultants and should not be relied upon as legal, tax or accounting advice, which we are not authorised to provide.