SIA urges clubs to plan ahead for 2027 and Martyn’s Law

Clubs are being encouraged to start preparing for Martyn’s Law, following the release of new planning tools by the Security Industry Authority (SIA).

Expected to come into force in spring 2027, Martyn’s Law aims to improve public safety by ensuring publicly accessible premises and events are better prepared to protect people against terrorist attacks.

The SIA is urging all organisations potentially in scope, including clubs, to use the new resources to understand their responsibilities and begin planning.

Developed with input from premises, events and protective security partners, the resources include a planning tool for standard-tier premises and a template for enhanced-tier premises and events.

For clubs in the standard tier, the planning tool helps them consider appropriate procedures for evacuation, lockdown, communications and invacuation (moving people to safe areas within the premises) in the event of an attack.

The enhanced-tier template provides a framework for documenting procedures, assessing vulnerabilities and considering protective measures covering monitoring, the movement of people, physical security and information security.

Whether a club falls within scope will depend on its principal use and the number of people reasonably expected to be present at the same time.

Generally, qualifying premises accommodating 200–799 people fall within the standard tier, while those expecting 800 or more fall within the enhanced tier. Staff must be included in these numbers.

When the legislation comes into force, qualifying clubs will need to notify the SIA. Standard-tier premises will not have to submit compliance documents unless requested.

Laura Gibb, SIA Executive Director of Martyn’s Law, said the new resources were developed in response to requests from businesses for practical help with planning and preparation. She encouraged organisations to test the tools and contribute feedback to ensure they work for premises of every size and type.

The SIA is inviting feedback on the resources until 23 December.

The tools and further guidance are available on GOV.UK.

Clubs unsure whether they are covered can consult the guidance flowcharts on ProtectUK.