The Manchester Arena attack in 2017 left deep scars across the UK and sparked an urgent conversation about how we keep people safe in public spaces. One of the lives tragically lost that night was Martyn Hett. His mother, Figen Murray, has since become a powerful advocate for change, working tirelessly to protect others from similar tragedies. Her campaigning led to what is now known as Martyn’s Law, a proposed piece of legislation designed to strengthen security and emergency preparedness across the UK.
What Is Martyn’s Law?
Martyn’s Law, officially named the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill, aims to ensure that venues, from large arenas and small shopping centres to schools and local halls, are better prepared to provide immediate treatment to anyone critically injured in the event of a major incident, such as a terrorist attack.
The focus is not only on preventing attacks, but also on how people respond if the unthinkable happens. This law ensures that:
· Staff receive appropriate safety and emergency response training
· Clear evacuation and incident plans are in place
· Critical life-saving equipment is available and accessible to all individuals
The law introduces a two-tiered system based on the size, capacity, and required security measures of a venue, requiring proportionate and practical measures. At its core, Martyn’s Law is about making safety a standard part of daily operations.
The Care Gap
One of the biggest challenges during any major incident is the time between the moment an injury occurs and the arrival of emergency services, otherwise known as the care gap. In cases of catastrophic bleeding, every second counts. The time within this care gap can mean the difference between life and death.
In those critical moments, it is natural for people to feel overwhelmed. Stress, chaos, panic, and fear of doing something wrong can all take over. Bleed control kits are designed to help guide members of the public through treating someone with a major injury in these moments.
You do not need to be a medical professional to save a life. You just need the right tools and the confidence to act. That is why it is BlueKit Medical’s mission to make these bleed control kits as simple as possible by empowering the public to become lifesavers. Because when someone’s life is at stake, #BleedControlSavesLives is not just a hashtag, it is a shared responsibility.
How You Can Prepare for Martyn’s Law
Preparing for Martyn’s Law is not just about compliance, it is about doing the right thing and taking practical steps to keep people safe. By taking these first steps, establishments can significantly improve public safety and readiness.
Here are some practical actions your organisation can take:
- Train staff in basic emergency response
- Install Bleed Control Kits in key, highly visible locations
- Ensure evacuation plans are clear, accessible, and well-practised
- Conduct regular safety drills and follow recommended security guidelines
- Review your venue’s risk assessments and emergency procedures
By equipping your establishment with the right tools, such as a Bleed Control Kit, you demonstrate a genuine commitment to public protection.
A Shared Responsibility
We owe it to the victims of past tragedies and to the public who trust us with their safety to take emergency preparedness seriously. By planning, acting, and installing the right life-saving tools, we can make a real difference when it matters most.
Related Links
· Are You Prepared For Martyn's Law?