Martyn's Law Steering Group publishes comprehensive new guidance to help prepare parish and town councils
With the legal commencement of the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025 (commonly known as Martyn's Law) expected in spring 2027, the sector's Martyn's Law Steering Group has published a comprehensive suite of guidance and practical resources to help parish and town councils understand and prepare for their future responsibilities.
The steering group is a joint initiative between ourselves and the Society of Local Council Clerks (SLCC), has been working closely with the government, policing partners and the wider sector to ensure that parish and town councils have access to clear, proportionate and practical advice.
The guidance has been developed specifically for parish and town councils and has been designed to translate the requirements of Martyn's Law into straightforward actions that councils can begin taking now. Rather than focusing solely on compliance, the guidance aims to help councils build confidence, strengthen preparedness and enhance the safety of the communities they serve.
The guidance explains how parish and town councils can take a proportionate approach to understanding terrorism risk, planning appropriate protective measures and developing effective emergency procedures. Recognising the diversity of the sector, from small parish councils to large town councils managing multiple buildings and major public events, the guidance promotes a practical, risk-based approach that reflects the size and nature of each council's activities.
To support implementation, the publication also includes a suite of ready-to-use template documents that parish and town councils can adapt for their own organisations, including:
- Martyn's Law training and resources guide.
- A sample report for councils and committees.
- An Emergency Response Policy.
- A terrorism risk assessment template for premises and events.
These templates are based on established good practice already being used successfully across the sector, enabling parish and town councils to save time while developing their own arrangements.
The SLCC has also developed a Martyn's Law Tool. Based on the Home Office's Section 27 Guidance published in May 2026, the tool enables parish and town councils to quickly determine whether Martyn's Law applies to their premises or events and clearly identifies the actions required to achieve compliance.
Together, the guidance and the tool provide parish and town councils with an accessible, practical guide to begin preparing well in advance of the Act coming into force.
The steering group encourages parish and town councils to familiarise themselves with the guidance now, review their current arrangements and begin planning for implementation. Early preparation will not only support legal compliance but also help build safer, more resilient public spaces and community events.
