In recent years, the UK has taken significant steps to improve public safety in response to the evolving threat landscape. One of the most important developments is Martyn’s Law, also known as the Protect Duty. Named in memory of Martyn Hett, who was killed in the 2017 Manchester Arena attack, the legislation is designed to ensure that organisations responsible for publicly accessible locations take proportionate steps to protect people from terrorism and major incidents.
While much of the discussion around Martyn’s Law focuses on security measures, risk assessments, and physical protections, an equally vital component is often overlooked: the role of appropriately trained medical staff. Preparedness is not only about prevention, but also about response — and when the worst happens, the quality and speed of medical care can mean the difference between life and death.
Martyn’s Law places a duty on venues, event organisers, and certain public bodies to plan for and mitigate the impact of potential attacks. This includes having robust emergency response plans, clear communication procedures, and trained staff who understand their roles during an incident. Medical response must be a core part of this planning, not an afterthought.
Major incidents, whether caused by terrorism, crowd surges, or other hazards, typically result in multiple casualties within a short timeframe. These incidents place immediate and intense pressure on local NHS services. Appropriately trained on-site medical teams can significantly reduce this burden by delivering rapid lifesaving interventions before ambulance services arrive. Early haemorrhage control, airway management, triage, and basic trauma care have been repeatedly shown to improve survival outcomes.
Crucially, this is not just about having “someone with a first aid certificate” on site. Martyn’s Law highlights the need for proportionate and credible preparedness. For larger venues and higher-risk events, this means deploying clinically trained professionals such as First Responders, Emergency Care Assistants (ECAs), and event medics with experience in major incident response. These staff must be trained not only in clinical skills, but also in situational awareness, dynamic risk assessment, and multi-agency working.
Medical teams also play a key role in prevention and early recognition. Trained clinicians are often better equipped to identify suspicious behaviour, emerging medical risks within crowds, or early signs of distress that could escalate into serious incidents. Their presence enhances overall safety culture and reassures the public that wellbeing is being taken seriously.
Furthermore, integration is essential. Medical providers must be fully embedded into an event or venue’s wider emergency plan, with clear lines of communication to security, control rooms, and emergency services. Regular training, exercises, and scenario planning ensure that when an incident occurs, responses are coordinated rather than chaotic.
Martyn’s Law is ultimately about safeguarding life. Meeting its spirit requires more than compliance checklists — it demands investment in people. By ensuring the presence of appropriately trained medical staff, organisations not only fulfil their legal and moral responsibilities, but also create safer environments where preparedness, professionalism, and compassion come together when they are needed most.
