30th April 2026
A lot of the conversation around Martyn’s Law is rightly focused on defining the Responsible Person role. What it requires – how it is supported – what needs to be in place during each phase of the event – and how preparedness can be demonstrated.
The legislation, now supported by Section 27 guidance and the forthcoming Security Industry Authority consultation on their own Section 12 guidance, sets a clear expectation: that venues and events need to take proportionate, practical steps to protect the public.
But it doesn’t prescribe exactly how that plays out in every environment, because events and venues don’t operate in fixed conditions. They operate in dynamic, evolving environments where information is incomplete, unique situations exist or develop and decisions need to be made in real time.
That’s where the Responsible Person role needs to be seen in context, and by confidently interpreting and applying the law correctly.
Interpretation can begin in earnest now that the guidance is available. Application starts once your setting and context can be understood. In how prepared you are or intend to be. In how clearly roles, responsibilities and accountabilities have been worked through not just for you as the Responsible Person, but the whole team.
Because when the moment comes, you rarely have time to figure it out. You rely on what’s already been built. If that preparation has been done well you recognise the moment for what it is.
It’s not the moment things fall apart. It’s the moment you recognise what you’ve prepared for. And crucially, it’s not just your own recognition, it’s the recognition of the teams around you.
People understand their role. Communication starts to flow as expected. Actions are coordinated, not necessarily perfectly, but purposefully.
Clarity of the picture you’re working from. The confidence you and your teams have in what needs to happen next. And the authority to act.
This is why the Responsible Person role isn’t just about what happens in the moment. It’s about how well that moment has been prepared for collectively.
Not just “What will I do?” but “Will we recognise the moment and be ready to act?”
As I’ve written about before, this is the space the Decision Support Centre Limited is focused on supporting; by helping to interpret and apply in real-world environments.
For those who’ve asked, here’s a link to the DSC resources where you can also find information on our Responsible Persons.
