SIA updates progress on Martyn’s Law as new notification guidance is released

The Security Industry Authority (SIA) has issued a fresh update on preparations for Martyn’s Law, highlighting new Home Office guidance on the notification requirement and calling for additional volunteers to support development work ahead of commencement in 2027.

Published on 5 August, the update from Laura Gibb, the SIA’s Executive Director for Martyn’s Law, sets out ongoing activity to build the notification portal, refine regulatory guidance and support organisations expected to fall within scope of the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025.

The SIA reports strong engagement from volunteers already helping to test early versions of the notification portal and review draft guidance materials. The regulator is continuing to work through expressions of interest and will invite further volunteers to participate as development phases progress. It emphasised that more volunteers are still needed and encouraged organisations to register via its sign‑up form.

With summer events and festivals underway, the SIA noted that Martyn’s Law remains a priority for many organisers, particularly given the UK’s current SEVERE national threat level. While the legislation will not take effect until next year, the SIA urged premises and event operators to begin preparing, stressing that the new duties are intended to be proportionate and build on existing protective security measures. Guidance on understanding Martyn’s Law is available on GOV.UK and ProtectUK.

New Home Office guidance has also been published to help organisations understand the requirement to notify once the Act comes into force. Responsible persons for qualifying premises will have three months from commencement to submit a notification, with changes to be reported within 28 days. For qualifying events, notification will generally be required within 14 days of the event date being made public. The responsible person may authorise someone else to submit a notification, but legal responsibility remains with them.

The guidance clarifies that “control of the premises” means both possession at the relevant time and the ability to make decisions about management and use, including who may remain on site. A flowchart and FAQs on ProtectUK provide further support for organisations navigating the notification requirement.

The SIA will publish more information on how to use the notification portal closer to commencement and will continue issuing updates through its Martyn’s Law newsletter later this month. Organisations can sign up via the SIA’s registration page and are encouraged to contact MLR@sia.gov.uk with questions or suggestions for further guidance.