NALC hails landmark moment as Martyn’s Law receives Royal Assent
We are thrilled to announce that today marks a historic moment with the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, commonly known as Martyn’s Law, has officially received Royal Assent. This groundbreaking legislation is a monumental step in strengthening national security and safeguarding communities. We have been at the forefront of championing these crucial protections for parish and town councils nationwide.
With Royal Assent secured, the implementation phase is expected to span at least 24 months. During this period, the Home Office, in collaboration with the Security Industry Authority (SIA), will establish a robust regulatory framework while providing ample time for businesses, premises, and event organisers to prepare for compliance.
Education, guidance, and communication are pivotal to the success of this Act. We stand ready to play a leading role in ensuring that parish and town councils understand their responsibilities and become trailblazers in implementing best practices. The Home Office and SIA have pledged to work closely with us and key partners to ensure duty holders have the tools and resources to navigate the new requirements confidently.
To support this transition, the Home Office will spearhead efforts to clarify legislative requirements, with two sets of statutory guidance set for publication. The first, released by the Home Office, will provide clear instructions for duty holders on fulfilling their obligations. The second, issued by the SIA, will outline how the regulatory body will oversee compliance. By leveraging these comprehensive resources, parish and town councils can ensure seamless adherence to the new standards without unnecessary expense or confusion.
For continued updates, the Home Office will direct stakeholders to GOV.UK and Protect UK, where essential information and timelines for enforcement will be made available. These platforms will serve as invaluable hubs for parish and town councils, ensuring they remain informed and proactive as they prepare to implement the Act’s provisions.
It is important to note that while duty holders should begin familiarising themselves with the forthcoming requirements, they are not immediately obligated to comply until the legislation is fully enacted. Moreover, there is no need for excessive spending on external consultants. The government’s statutory guidance will empower organisations to self-assess their compliance needs, ensuring a streamlined and cost-effective approach to implementation.
We established the Martyn’s Law Steering Group with the Society of Local Council Clerks in early 2024 to advocate for legislation and craft sector-specific guidance. With this landmark law in place, the steering group is gearing up for the next critical phase of equipping parish and town councils with the knowledge and strategies needed to excel in compliance and set the gold standard for community safety. The group will convene to finalise its guidance framework, ensuring parish and town councils foster a safer, more resilient nation. Martyn’s Law is a transformative moment for local governance and public safety. We are proud to have played a pivotal role in bringing it to fruition. Our commitment remains unwavering to support, guide, and empower parish and town councils as they take on this vital responsibility, ensuring safer spaces for all.
