This page offers an overview of the responsibilities of four key partners working together as part of the UK protective security system to ensure that premises and events both in and out of scope of the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, commonly known as Martyn’s Law, are protected and better prepared in the event of a terrorist attack.
Roles and responsibilities
The Home Office sets the strategy for the protective security system, developing policy and delivering legislation. It was responsible for the development of the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025 and oversaw the development and publication of the section 27 statutory guidance , intended to assist those in scope to understand the requirements of the legislation. The Home Office will also monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the legislation after it has entered into force.
The Security Industry Authority (SIA) will regulate compliance with the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025. This will include promoting compliance through communications activities, and publishing section 12 operational guidance about how it will exercise its function as a regulator. The SIA will produce wider products to support those in scope of Martyn’s Law to comply with their legal obligations. As the regulator, the SIA will assess compliance and take proportionate steps to drive compliance where required.
The National Counter Terrorism Security Office (NaCTSO) provides practical protective security advice. This includes supporting organisations and government partners by producing accessible, expert advice and products which will assist those in and out of scope of Martyn’s Law. NaCTSO will continue to publish key protective security updates regarding Martyn’s Law on the ProtectUK website throughout the implementation period.
As the UK’s National Technical Authority for physical and personnel security, the National Protective Security Authority (NPSA) develops and publishes protective security guidance for a wide range of users. This includes guidance intended to help those responsible for security at public premises and events understand threat and risk, and identify and implement effective security mitigations, including response planning. The NPSA will continue to develop and maintain its guidance offer in support of Martyn’s Law.