Protect and Prepare are two key parts of the UK Government’s Counter-Terrorism strategy, CONTEST. Their aim is to strengthen our defences against terrorist attacks and minimise the impact of an attack, helping people and places to stay safe and recover effectively.
The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, also known as Martyn’s Law became an Act of Parliament on 3 April 2025 and is now in the implementation phase. This phase helps:
- Organisations in scope of the law prepare for its requirements
- Establish the regulatory capacity needed to ensure compliance
This page provides information and resources for organisations, residents, and businesses on how to help keep people and places safer.
What is Martyn’s Law?
Martyn’s Law, formally known as the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, was introduced following the Manchester Arena Inquiry and London Bridge Inquest, both of which called for the introduction of legislation to better protect the public.
The legislation was tirelessly campaigned for by Figen Murray whose son, Martyn Hett, was one of 22 people killed in the Manchester Arena attack on 22 May 2017.
Martyn’s Law responds to Protect and Prepare and aims to improve protective security and organisational preparedness. It requires certain public premises and events to take extra steps to ensure they are better protected and can respond effectively to keep people safe in the event of an attack.
It introduces a tiered approach for public premises and events, linked to the different activities that take place and the number of people that it is reasonable to expect will be present at the same time.
The Regulator of Martyn’s Law will be the Security Industry Authority (SIA)
For more information about Martyn’s Law, please view Martyn’s Law | ProtectUK
protectuk.police.uk/sites/default/files/2025-06/21.29_ho_mla_v9_subbed_1.mp4
Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025: Overarching Factsheet – GOV.UK
Training
The National Counter Terrorism Security Office (NaCTSO) offers FREE Action Counters Terrorism (ACT) introductory e-learning on security awareness and good practices to counter terrorism.
The National Protective Security Authority (NPSA) provides FREE SCaN (See, Check and Notify) training for a range of staff including customer facing staff, security managers and decision-makers.
Resources
Contest
CONTEST is the national strategy for Countering Terrorism. It has four strands: Prevent, Protect, Prepare, Pursue. Find out more about the Government’s Counter-Terror Strategy CONTEST.
Terrorism and National Emergencies
For information about national threat levels relating to terrorism, please see: Terrorism and national emergencies: Terrorism threat levels.
Protect UK
ProtectUK provides up to date guidance, advice and training on security and countering terrorism.
Twice a year, Protect UK publish a protective security awareness campaign to increase public vigilance, safety and reporting. To help raise awareness in your organisation, please make use of the FREE campaign assets: Summer Campaign Digital Toolkit.
Security Minded Communications
The National Protective Security Authority (NPSA) provides guidance on how to use communications to help protect staff and visitors: Security-Minded Communications guidance.
In an emergency, call 999 immediately.
- Emergency Services (Police, Fire, Ambulance): 999
- Non-Emergency Police: 101
- Suspicious Activity / Anti-Terror Hotline: 0800 789 321
Tip: If you see something suspicious, move to a safe location and alert the authorities. Do not confront anyone yourself.
Stay Alert: Recognising Suspicious Behaviour
Being vigilant helps protect the community. Signs to watch for include:
- Unattended items or packages in unusual places
- Individuals photographing sensitive sites or security measures
- Behaviour that seems threatening, unusual, or out of place
- Online threats or concerning messages
Report concerns immediately to the police or via the anti-terror hotline.
Public Spaces & Event Safety
Crowded spaces, transport hubs, and public events can be vulnerable. Keep safe by:
- Noting emergency exits and evacuation routes
- Keeping children and vulnerable people close
- Following instructions from event staff or security
- Reporting anything suspicious immediately
Resources:
- Keeping everyone safe at events | ProtectUK
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MaeBBzgcz-w
Home & Community Preparedness
- Secure doors and windows
- Keep emergency numbers accessible
- Have a household safety plan
- Check on neighbours, particularly those who may need extra support
For local businesses and organisations:
- Conduct risk assessments for staff and visitors
- Maintain security systems (CCTV, alarms, access controls)
- Train staff to recognise suspicious behaviour
- Have a clear evacuation plan
Learn More & Build Awareness
Interactive online learning is a practical way to understand and respond to potential threats:
- E-Learning | ProtectUK – Entry-level interactive guidance to help mitigate current terrorist risks.
- SCaN for All Awareness Module | NPSA – Covers vigilance, recognising suspicious activity, and reporting.
- These resources are free and suitable for individuals, community groups, and businesses.
Responding to an Incident
If an incident occurs:
- Move to a safe location if possible
- Follow instructions from emergency services
- Evacuate calmly; avoid spreading unverified information
- Provide first aid only if safe to do so
In public areas or events:
- Know the location of emergency exits
- Keep personal belongings secure
- Contact authorities immediately if you see suspicious items or behaviour
Stay Informed
Follow official channels for alerts and guidance:
- ProtectUK – Advice & Guidance
- UK Government emergency alerts
- Local police and council social media channels
Avoid sharing unverified information online.
Key Message
Everyone in Faversham has a role in counter-terrorism preparedness. By staying alert, following official guidance, and knowing how to respond, we can make our town safer and more resilient.
How to prepare
Undertake ACT and SCaN training to increase awareness of what the possible risks may be and reasonable precautions/actions to take.Be security-minded in your communications, particularly online.
Assess the possible vulnerabilities that your premises or event may have to a terrorist attack and take practical steps to reduce these risks.
Have plans in place so your organisation knows what to do in the event of an attack. Make sure these are up to date and are tested regularly.
Ensure security remains a priority across your organisation and that any concerns can be reported easily.
Remain alert to suspicious behaviour on or around your site, such as people displaying an unusual interest in asking questions, filming or photographing.
