Protect guidance for events and public spaces
What the risk looks like in your sector
Events and public spaces can attract large crowds in open or temporary environments. High footfall, limited entry controls and media visibility can increase vulnerability. Event organisers have a responsibility to consider security alongside general health and safety planning.
Possible risks may include:
- vehicle attacks in pedestrian areas
- suspicious or unattended items
- hostile reconnaissance
- insider threats
- crowd panic during an incident
If you're planning an event in Gateshead, you can find guidance on our event support page and also review our Prevent venue hire guidance to ensure compliance with safety and security expectations.
What Martyn's Law may require
Certain qualifying public events will fall within scope depending on the expected attendance and whether the event meets the legal definition set out in the Act.
If your event is in scope, you may be required to:
- register the event where required
- carry out a terrorism risk assessment as part of your overall event planning
- put in place proportionate procedures to reduce vulnerability
- brief staff, stewards and volunteers on emergency actions
- maintain clear communication and evacuation plans
Enhanced tier events may be required to demonstrate more comprehensive planning and mitigation measures, including documented procedures and coordination with relevant partners.
See our Martyn's Law guidance page for full details and thresholds.
Practical steps
- include terrorism risk within your event risk assessment
- consider vehicle mitigation where appropriate
- brief stewards on Run Hide Tell principles
- establish clear communication plans
- coordinate with police and emergency planning teams
- test evacuation procedures before the event
Training and resources
- encourage supervisors to complete ACT Awareness (opens new window)
- complete ACT in a box (opens new window) scenario-based e-learning
- ACT Security e-Learning (opens new window) for security staff
- NPSA Security Guidance (opens new window) for owners and operators of venues, events and public spaces
Access further support via our training and resources page.