Martyn’s Law

Many churches will be aware of Martyn’s Law, officially the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, which requires venues and events open to the public to improve security and preparedness for potential terrorist attacks. Diocesan Director of Church Buildings, Mark Carter offers this update for churches: 

“The recent tragic attack at the Heaton Park Synagogue has brought back into focus security at places of worship. 

Parliament’s recent passing of the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025 – known as Martyn’s Law following the Manchester Arena attack – will have requirements for some churches to implement new policies and procedures on operating a place of assembly. 

However, only churches where there is a reasonable expectation of hosting over 200 people will need to comply and the implementation of the Act is not due yet with aspects of it being phased in over the next 18-months. 

We are expecting that there will be guidance forthcoming from the Church Buildings Council (supported by training locally) soon. In the meantime, more information can be found on this page of the Church of England website.”