Do you need a Martyn’s Law consultant?
Usually not for the standard tier. Here is when help is worth paying for, and how to spot someone overselling it.
No one is legally required to use a consultant for Martyn’s Law. The Home Office designed the standard tier so venues can meet it themselves with free guidance and ProtectUK training. Paying for help makes sense if your scope is unclear, you run several sites, your building is complicated, or you are in the enhanced tier.
What can you do for free?
- The Home Office’s statutory guidance and the SIA’s guidance.
- ProtectUK: ACT Awareness e-learning and the ACT in a Box tabletop exercise.
- Templates the SIA says it will publish over the coming months.
- Your trade body, diocese, council or village hall association — many have free sector guides.
When is outside help worth it?
- Your tier is not obvious — mixed-use buildings, seasonal peaks, function rooms.
- You run several venues and want one consistent approach.
- You are enhanced tier, where the document goes to the SIA.
- You simply want it done properly without your manager losing two days.
What are the red flags?
- “Martyn’s Law certified”, “SIA approved” or “Home Office approved” — no such thing exists.
- Leading with £18 million fines to a 250-seat venue.
- Selling equipment to standard-tier premises as if the law requires it.
- A generic template with your name typed on the front.
Before you pay anyone: the Home Office says premises do not need to buy consultancy to meet the standard tier, and its guidance, the SIA’s guidance and the ProtectUK training are free. Neither the Home Office nor the SIA endorses any provider, including us. The legal responsibility stays with the person responsible for the premises; we help with the work, we do not take the duty off you.
Want a second pair of eyes on it?
Send the venue type, the most people you would expect in at once, and how many sites you run. We will tell you which tier you look to be in and whether the free route is enough before quoting anything.
Common questions
Can a consultant take on my legal responsibility?
No. The responsible person cannot hand the legal duty to a contractor. They can get help with the tasks.
Does the SIA recommend any consultants?
No. The SIA and Home Office say they cannot endorse or recommend any company or service.