How will Martyn’s Law be enforced?  

To support enforcement of the regime, a new regulatory function will be established within the Security Industry Authority (SIA). The SIA will seek to support, advise and guide those responsible for premises and events in meeting the requirements of this legislation. Where there are instances of serious or persistent non-compliance the SIA will be able to take enforcement action including compliance notices, monetary penalties and restriction notices. The legislation also includes some criminal offences. The SIA must prepare statutory guidance about how it will discharge its functions under the Act, which must be approved by the Home Secretary before it is published.   

There will be a period of time prior to the implementation of the legislation, i.e. when it will come into force. We expect this period to be at least 24 months to allow for the set-up of the regulator and to ensure sufficient time for those responsible for premises and events in scope to understand their new obligations before they come into force, being able to plan and prepare accordingly. 

How will my business or organisation be supported on Martyn’s Law?   

Guidance will be provided in due course to assist those in scope to understand the requirements set out in the legislation. The guidance is being designed to be easy to follow, needing neither particular expertise nor the use of third-party products or services. 

The Home Office continues to build on the materials already published in relation to this legislation. This includes a bespoke landing page on Protect UK, Government factsheets which set out key aspects of the legislation, social media promotion, various press releases, media briefings, and our substantial stakeholder engagement campaign. 

The Governments intention is to augment and further strengthen our communications during the implementation period, to support duty holders and raise awareness amongst the public. 

Protect UK – Martyn’s Law

Will Martyn’s Law apply to all of the UK?    

The legislation will apply across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland to ensure consistency in keeping the public safe across all parts of the United Kingdom.