Hosting its Annual Thought Leadership Event in June, LMS Security consultancy offers some reflections on the topic of the day – Martyn’s Law.
The progress of the new legislation, set to widely impact the private security profession, has dominated industry headlines this year. While those directly responsible for publicly accessible venues of capacities of over 100 (standard tier) and 800 (enhanced tier) will be most affected, there is demand throughout the supply chain for education and awareness on the regulations it may introduce.
LMS Security, an independent security consultancy based in the UK, hosted its Annual Thought Leadership Event on 29 June, opting to focus on Martyn’s Law.
Held in London, the event brought together professionals from diverse backgrounds to delve into the significance of Protect Duty and provide practical advice to those responsible for safeguarding publicly accessible locations.
At the heart of the event was the discussion around the importance of Protect Duty, also referred to as Martyn’s Law. The need for this new legislation was highlighted by the unfortunate attack that took place at the Manchester Arena on 22nd May 2017 and resulted in the death of 22 individuals, including Martyn Hett.
“The event created an opportunity for discussion around the proposed legislation and, most critically, open and frank conversation around how important it is to get it right. It was a resounding success with new networks created and a new push towards introducing this vital piece of legislature”, said Matt McGinn, Specialist Counter Threat Director, LMS Security.
Attendees heard from Figen Murray OBE, mother of Martyn, Nick Aldworth, of Risk to Resolution, and Chris Medhurst-Cocksworth, Head of Pool Re Solutions.
Figen Murray speaking at the LMS Annual Thought Leadership event
LMS Security’s Managing Director, Marcus Newton, reflected: “The keynote speakers were all exceptional. Figen Murray and Nick Aldworth provided an emotional, thought provoking and compelling commentary on the need for legislative change. The hard work they, and Brendan Cox, have put into this legal reform is to be commended.
“Chris Medhurst-Cocksworth then provided his insights and practical advice on the reasonable, pragmatic steps that those responsible for safety and security for publicly accessible locations can be doing now, including the use of VSAT. The overall message was that of proportionality and pragmatism, which LMS fully supports.”
Sharing her own thoughts on the law, Helena Palmer, Support Services Director with LMS Security, added: “The Protect Duty will not eradicate terrorism but will make sure public venues and those responsible for events are doing all they can to keep people safe.”
Looking back at the evening, Matt Blake, Commercial Director at LMS Security, concluded: “My biggest takeaway from the day, shared by many of our guests on the day, is that responsible building owners and managers must be suitably prepared to understand the requirements of the legislation and act appropriately. This includes seeking guidance from trusted advisors to ensure the right measures are implemented.”
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