Named after Martyn Hett, a victim of the 2017 Manchester Arena bombing, Martyn’s Law mandates stronger protective measures for public spaces. Currently going through parliament, this law will have a significant impact on schools.


Implementation helps all educational facilities to identify vulnerabilities and take proactive steps to mitigate risks, ultimately ensuring a safer environment. However, to ensure this outcome, there are multiple factors to consider. Our Education Product Specialist, Alice O’Shea, has put together the following guidance to highlight the areas that need to be addressed.

1. Enhanced security protocols

Schools will need to adopt comprehensive security measures to protect students, staff, and visitors from potential terrorist attacks.

This includes risk assessments, emergency planning, and the implementation of robust security infrastructure.

2. Mandatory risk assessments

Schools must conduct thorough risk assessments to identify vulnerabilities and areas requiring enhanced security measures.

This proactive approach aims to mitigate risks before they can be exploited by potential attackers.

3. Training and awareness

Staff should receive training to recognise and respond to threats, ensuring that they are both prepared and informed.

Students may also be educated on safety protocols, contributing to a culture of vigilance and readiness.

4. Emergency response preparedness

Schools will need to develop and regularly update emergency response plans to handle potential terrorist incidents effectively.

Regular drills and simulations ensure that everyone knows their roles and actions in case of an emergency. When running any form of live testing, consideration must be taken for those who have already experienced trauma, and for those with sensory or additional needs.

Mass communication methods should exist for lockdown, evacuation and broadcasting live announcements, adopting the ‘Guide, Shelter & Communicate’ principles laid out by the government.

5. Collaboration with law enforcement

Close collaboration with local police and emergency services is required to ensure that threats receive a coordinated and swift response.

Schools must be part of a broader security network, sharing information and resources with other institutions and authorities.

6. Community reassurance

Demonstrating a commitment to safety reassures parents, students and the community, enhancing trust and confidence in a school’s ability to provide a secure learning environment.

Transparent communication about safety measures and protocols can alleviate concerns and foster a sense of security.

7. Legal and regulatory compliance

Compliance with Martyn’s Law ensures that schools meet legal obligations, avoiding potential penalties and enhancing overall safety standards. Staying up to date with regulatory requirements will be essential for school administrators and governing bodies.

SCG is working in partnership with The Protect Alliance (UK), and recommend that all customers implementing Martyn’s Law adopt the below standards:

  • ISO 45001: this concerns health and safety, with a clause for emergency preparedness
  • ISO 22301: this concerns business continuity, with greater emphasis on the recovery phase

Both incorporate the need for legal compliance.

8. Enhanced infrastructure and technology

Schools need to invest in advanced security technologies such as surveillance systems, access controls and communication tools to detect and deter threats.

Physical infrastructure needs to be upgraded to include protective barriers and secure entry points.

SCG: Making your school safe, secure and compliant

We provide comprehensive solutions tailored to educational institutions, including secure networking, communication tools and management systems. Our expertise in school-specific technologies ensures reliable performance and compliance with safety regulations such as Martyn’s Law. In addition, our support and training services help schools maximise the effectiveness of their technology investments whilst prioritising student safety and wellbeing.

Martyn’s Law is pivotal for schools, mandating a structured and comprehensive approach to security ensuring that educational facilities are better positioned to prevent and respond to terrorist threats. Correct implementation creates safer environments for learning and growth, fostering a proactive culture of security and preparedness.

You can watch our video on Martyn’s Law here to discover how ready your school is.

If you’d like help to ensure that your school is prepared for Martyn’s Law, please do not hesitate to contact us on 0800 090 1965.