Protect guidance for voluntary and community groups
What the risk looks like in your sector
Voluntary and community groups often operate from shared or hired premises and may rely on volunteers rather than formal management structures. Limited security awareness can increase vulnerability, particularly when hosting public events.
Possible risks may include:
- suspicious behaviour in or around venues
- online threats
- limited understanding of reporting processes
- unplanned events attracting larger crowds
What Martyn's Law may require
Voluntary and community groups operating premises open to the public above certain capacity thresholds may fall within scope of the legislation.
If applicable, groups may be required to:
- register qualifying premises
- assess terrorism-related risks proportionately
- put in place simple, practical procedures to reduce harm
- ensure volunteers and organisers understand what to do in an emergency
- review arrangements regularly
The Act is designed to be proportionate. Smaller organisations will not be expected to introduce extensive security measures, but should demonstrate awareness and preparedness where required.
See our Martyn's Law guidance page for full details and thresholds.
Practical steps
- understand your venue layout
- ensure volunteers know how to report concerns
- brief members on basic emergency procedures
- include security considerations in event planning
- liaise with venue owners about protective measures
- measures should be proportionate to the size and nature of your activities
Training and resources
- ACT Awareness (opens new window) training
- See, Check, and Notify (SCaN) (opens new window) training for organisers and volunteers
Access further support via our training and resources page.