On 3 April 2025, the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025—commonly known as Martyn’s Law—received Royal Assent. This legislation is designed to improve public safety at venues and premises across the UK, following the devastating 2017 Manchester Arena attack.
The new law requires businesses to put protective measures in place and provide staff with the appropriate training.
Background screening could add a vital layer of protection for businesses to reduce the risk of insider threats, whilst demonstrating compliance with security obligations.
Martyn’s Law requires public venues and events to adopt proportionate security measures, tailored to their size and capacity. Businesses will have at least 24 months to prepare before the law is enforced, with the Security Industry Authority (SIA) acting as regulator.
In short, the law makes it clear that security is no longer optional—and that includes not just physical measures but also ensuring that the people working within an organisation can be trusted.
Martyn’s law places the responsibility of public safety on venue owners—but threats don’t just come from outside. Insider threats—individuals with access who may exploit their role—can pose serious risks. Background checks can help to:
To strengthen security, businesses can adopt background screening checks based on risk and role. At Secure Screening Services we would recommend that you consider the following checks:
Confirming an individual is who they claim to be through official documents or digital identity verification.
Ensuring employees are legally entitled to work in the UK is compulsory for any employer and could help to prevent fraudulent hires.
Confirming work history ensures the individual has the relevant skills and experience. This check could also highlight inaccuracies and dishonesty
Basic, Standard, or Enhanced DBS checks depending on role and risk level.
Identifies unspent convictions and provides reassurance that staff do not pose a risk due to past convictions
Identifying issues such as bankruptcy or County Court Judgments (CCJs), which may indicate vulnerability to coercion.
Checking against lists for terrorism, fraud, or organised crime associations.
You could choose to conduct the UK Government-recognised screening framework called BPSS which is screening package covering:
Specifically designed for roles in security-sensitive environments you could put your candidates through BS7858 Screening, which covers:
Conducting pre-employment screening or choosing to strengthen your existing workforce through robust background screening is one of the most effective ways to help mitigate insider threats, helping to build public confidence and enhance your company’s reputation.
At Secure Screening Services we understand the importance of finding a screening provider who will make background screening simple for you and your candidates. Using the latest technology, alongside excellent customer support we ensure a smooth and hassle-free screening experience, so you can make confident hiring decisions.
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