Martyn’s Law in 2026: Is Your Birmingham Venue Ready for the New Security Tiers?

It is March 2026, and the landscape of public safety in the UK has reached a pivotal turning point. For venue owners, event organisers, and security professionals in Birmingham, the conversation has shifted from "what if" to "how soon."

Martyn’s Law, formally known as the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, is no longer just a headline. It is a reality that is reshaping how we gather, celebrate, and work.

At Zems Academy, we believe that security is not just about compliance. It is about building a visionary future where every citizen feels safe in our city. Whether you run a bustling pub in Digbeth, a theatre in the City Centre, or a massive exhibition space near the NEC, 2026 is your year to lead the way in safety and resilience.

Why Martyn’s Law Matters Now

The law was born out of the tireless campaigning of Figen Murray, mother of Martyn Hett, who tragically lost his life in the 2017 Manchester Arena attack. Its purpose is simple: to ensure that venues are better prepared for and protected against terrorist attacks.

After receiving Royal Assent in 2025, the implementation phase is now in full swing. While full enforcement is expected by 2027, 2026 is the critical window for Birmingham businesses to upgrade their staff skills and physical security measures.

Being proactive isn't just about avoiding penalties. It is about showing your customers that their safety is your absolute priority.

Does Your Venue Fall Under the New Rules?

If you operate a "qualifying premises" that is accessible to the public, you need to pay attention. The law applies to a wide range of locations, including:

• Bars, pubs, and nightclubs.
• Restaurants and cafes.
• Hotels and holiday parks.
• Theatres, cinemas, and concert halls.
• Sports stadiums and leisure centres.
• Shopping centres and large retail stores.
• Places of worship.

The law is structured into two tiers based on the capacity of your venue. Understanding which tier you fall into is the first step toward readiness.

The Standard Tier: For Venues Housing 200–799 People

If your venue capacity sits between 200 and 799 people, you fall into the Standard Tier. The requirements here are designed to be low-cost and simple to implement, but they are absolutely vital.

For Birmingham’s thriving independent scene: our mid-sized music venues and larger restaurants: this means taking a fresh look at your daily operations.

What you need to do in 2026:

1. Create a Safety Plan: Develop a clear strategy for how staff should respond to a potential threat.
2. Staff Training: Ensure all employees understand basic security procedures and how to raise an alarm.
3. Communication: Have a reliable way to communicate with staff and visitors during an emergency.

Security training Birmingham is the most effective way to get your team up to speed. Simple awareness can save lives.

The Enhanced Tier: For Venues Housing 800+ People

For the "big hitters": the massive stadiums, arenas, and large-scale shopping centres: the expectations are much higher. If your capacity is 800 or more, you are in the Enhanced Tier.

This tier requires a more rigorous approach to risk management. You aren't just looking at general safety; you are looking at specific vulnerabilities.

Key requirements for the Enhanced Tier:

• Documented Risk Assessments: You must carry out and document thorough assessments of terrorism-related risks.
• Security Measures: You are required to implement physical security measures, such as CCTV and secure entry points.
• Specialised Personnel: Having a highly trained security team is no longer optional; it is a necessity.
• SIA Oversight: The Security Industry Authority (SIA) is the central body overseeing these changes, ensuring that standards are met across the board.

If you are managing a large-capacity site, now is the time to review your SIA security training requirements.

The Role of the SIA in 2026

The SIA has taken a leading role in the rollout of Martyn’s Law. Throughout 2026, they are providing the guidance and framework that Birmingham venues need to follow.

They are focusing on ensuring that security guards, door supervisors, and CCTV operators are trained to recognize the signs of hostile reconnaissance and know exactly how to react in a crisis.

At Zems Academy, we align our courses with these evolving SIA standards. We don't just teach you how to get a license; we teach you how to protect your community.

Building Resilience in Birmingham

Birmingham is a city of innovation. As we move through 2026, our venues have the chance to set the national standard for security excellence.

Resilience isn't just about high walls; it’s about high-quality training. When your staff is confident, your guests are comfortable.

How to start your preparation today:

• Audit your capacity: Know exactly how many people your venue can hold.
• Review your current training: Are your staff members first-aid trained? Do they have a Level 2 Spectator Safety qualification?
• Identify vulnerabilities: Walk through your venue and look for "blind spots" or unsecured entry points.
• Book a course: Don't wait for the 2027 deadline. Start your course security training now.

Essential Training Courses for 2026 Compliance

To meet the requirements of Martyn’s Law, you need a team that is versatile and well-prepared. Here are the top training picks for Birmingham venue owners this year:

1. Level 2 Certificate in Spectator Safety

This is the gold standard for anyone working at events or venues with large crowds. It covers crowd management, health and safety, and emergency procedures.
Explore Spectator Safety Training

2. Level 2 CCTV Operator Training

In the Enhanced Tier, CCTV is a mandatory requirement. Having staff who know how to use these systems effectively is crucial for early threat detection.
Book CCTV Training in Birmingham

3. Level 2 Door Supervision

Your door staff are your first line of defence. Under Martyn’s Law, their role in screening and monitoring becomes even more significant.
Get Licensed for Door Supervision

Actionable Steps for Security Professionals

If you are a security professional working in Birmingham, 2026 is a year of massive career opportunity. The demand for "Martyn's Law-ready" personnel is skyrocketing.

• Update your skills: Ensure your SIA license is current and consider adding additional certifications like First Aid or Spectator Safety.
• Stay informed: Follow the latest updates from the Home Office and the SIA regarding the 2027 compliance deadline.
• Be a leader: Help your venue employer understand the new tiers and the importance of staff readiness.

The Vision: A Safer, Stronger Birmingham

We envision a Birmingham where every night out, every football match, and every concert is defined by joy, not fear. Martyn’s Law is the tool that allows us to build that reality.

By investing in security training Birmingham, you are doing more than just ticking a box for the government. You are contributing to the collective strength of our city.

Zems Academy is proud to be located at Invicta House, Warwick Road, Birmingham. We are right here in the heart of the city, ready to support our local businesses through this transition.

Why Choose Zems Academy?

We provide professional, visionary training that fits your schedule and your budget.

• Expert Instructors: Learn from professionals with real-world security experience.
• Practical Learning: Get hands-on experience in our Birmingham training centre.
• Nationwide Recognition: Our certificates are respected across the UK security industry.
• Easy Booking: Secure your spot with a simple deposit and start your journey toward a safer career.

Don't Wait Until 2027

The implementation period of 2026 is moving fast. The venues that succeed will be the ones that started their preparation early.

Whether you need to train one person or an entire team of fifty, we have the resources to help you meet the Standard or Enhanced Tier requirements.

Take Action Now:

• Check out our full list of training courses.
• Enrol your team in SIA security training.
• Ensure your first aid certificates are up to date with our First Aid Training modules.

The security of Birmingham is in our hands. Let's make 2026 the year we set a new standard for safety together.

Summary of Martyn's Law Tiers (2026 Guidance)

Final Thoughts for Venue Owners

Your venue is a place of community. It is where people come to connect. By embracing Martyn’s Law in 2026, you are protecting the very essence of what makes Birmingham great.

Stay visionary. Stay inspired. Stay safe.

Book your security training Birmingham at Zems Academy today and lead your venue into a secure future.

Contact Zems Academy Now