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WHAT SHOULD I DO?

As a venue operator and superior, it is your legal duty to make a reasonable effort to protect and ensure the welfare of your employees whilst on your licensed premises. You can look out for your staff in a number of ways to keep them safe and happy when on shift at your venue - so here's a couple of crucial ways you can implement a safer work environment for your staff:

2.  Train all staff to recognise and deal with harassment correctly

3.  Log all incidents and follow them up appropriately to create a safe staff culture

4.  Set up a clear and effective Customer Intervention System

WHAT SHOULD I DO?

Although this legislation isn't due to be activated until later this year, it's worth getting ahead of the curve. This will ensure you have given yourself enough time to protect your venue and it's patrons from any potential threats or risks that may occur between now and the new year. Be aware, there are different levels of compliance depending on the legal capacity of your venue:

Standard Tier  (100-799 capacity)

2.  Train staff on Suspicious Behaviour & Emergency Response

3. Create a basic Emergency Plan of Action

Enhanced Tier  (800+ capacity)

2.  Install physical security measures (if required)

3.  Appoint a designated Safety Lead

ADDITIONAL:  For additional effective resources direct from the UK Government click below. ACT Awareness is a cornerstone for ensuring you and your business are actively, and effectively, compliant with the Martyn's Law legislation across the board.

WHAT SHOULD I DO?

Your responsibility as a venue holder is to train your team, manage risks on-site and create a space that is safe, compliant, and community-conscious. If you fail to uphold expected standards, it can result in reviews, penalties, or licence suspension. Local authorities may also impose extra conditions or participate in schemes (eg. Late Night Levy, Best Bar None) to raise safety standards - so it's crucial that you stay in touch with these authorities and stay on top of your expectations as an operator.

2.  Keep a Refusals Register & Incident Logs up to date

3.  Support Vulnerable Customers & Prevent Escalation

ADDITIONAL:  For full licensing compliance support, Best Bar None can provide you with the necessary resources, contacts and staff training to ensure your compliance is straightforward and simple.

WHAT SHOULD I DO?

The Equality Act legally requires venues to treat everyone fairly and to ensure accessibility and inclusivity across the board. You must make reasonable adjustments for disabled customers, prevent discrimination, and create a welcoming space for all. Failure to comply can lead to legal action and can greatly damage your venue’s reputation.

2.  Train staff to serve disabled and neurodivergent customers

3.  Demonstrate how your venue is a safe and welcoming space for all

WHAT SHOULD I DO?

In addition to national laws, your local council (or BID) may have introduced extra safety expectations - like Late Night Levies, Purple Flag standards, or women’s safety initiatives. These can require added measures such as specific staff training, welfare zones, or enhanced security. It's crucial that you check with your licensing officer to stay compliant and avoid penalties down the line.

2.  Implement additional safety measures where required

If you require additional support and resources - visit our resource download page to view the full list of accessible resources