Free Martyn's Law workshop for Shropshire businesses

A workshop aimed at helping businesses and community groups prepare for the introduction of Martyn's Law is being held later this month.

Shrewsbury Business Improvement District has teamed up with specialist security advisers from West Midlands Counter Terrorism Policing to host the free event.

The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025 is nicknamed Martyn's Law after Martyn Hett who was killed at the Manchester Arena attack in 2017.

It sets a legal minimum standard for qualifying premises and events to prepare for a terrorist attack and is due to come into force next spring.

It will require venues such as shops, food and drink venues and entertainment spaces where 200 or more people may be present at once to have public protection procedures in place.

Larger premises and events of 800 or more will face additional requirements.

The information session will take place at The Buttermarket in Shrewsbury from 4pm to 6pm on Monday November 23.

It is open to staff at all levels, from organisations of every size and sector, whether or not Martyn's Law applies to them.

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Attendees will gain a clearer understanding of the current threat level and a practical starting point for their own plans, covering issues such as evacuation, lockdown and communication.

Catherine Harmer, Safer Shrewsbury co-ordinator at Shrewsbury BID, said: "Many businesses and organisations are thinking about Martyn's Law and what it means for them and we're glad to give them free access to expert counter terrorism advice as they prepare.

"The workshop is open to staff from businesses and community groups in every sector across Shropshire, whether or not Martyn's Law directly applies to them, because keeping people safe is a job we all share."

Shrewsbury Town Council clerk Helen Ball contributed to the UK Government's consultation on Martyn's Law.

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She added: "Martyn's Law represents an important step forward in strengthening public safety and it is essential that businesses understand the legislation and the responsibilities it brings.

"Training sessions like this provide a valuable opportunity to build awareness, understand what action may be required and ensure appropriate measures are in place.

"Compliance is not simply about meeting a legal requirement, it is about creating a culture of preparedness and ensuring everyone plays their part in keeping the public safe."

Buttermarket manager Claire Doster has completed the training already and will be attending the event.

She said: "The e-learning took less than an hour to complete and gave us valuable insight to enhance the way we think about the safety of our staff and customers.

"It's the kind of knowledge you hope never to use but you'd never want to be without it."

Places are free to Shropshire businesses but advance booking is required, via the Eventbrite website.