Frequently Asked Questions on Martyn's Law and Lockdown in Schools

No.  This is not about a significant threat to the sector - please do not be worried.  Rather this is about a change in terrorist modus operandi, from high complexity attacks on high profile targets to low complexity attacks anywhere at any time.  The terrorist threat is no longer easy to predict, leading to a change in Government strategy:  from protecting high profile sites - to protecting people going about their daily business wherever they might be.   This includes when they are at school, college and university. 

The draft Bill is currently making its way through the Parliamentary process so the final details are not confirmed.  However, Martyn's Law is one enabler of an existing Government Strategy:   Education settings should already consider a range of risks, including terrorism, to ensure their communities are safe.   So if you are not already doing this, you need to start thinking about this today.

Counter-Terrorism Protect and Prepare is not about turning education settings into fortresses.  Nor is it necessarily about massive capital investment.  It's about a layered approach which includes awareness, training, policies and plans, testing and drilling.  Think of it as placing a new lens over your existing policies and plans to identify any gaps and then coming up with sensible, proportionate ways to fill those gaps and make your community as safe as possible.

You do not, though a basic understanding of the threat from terrorism will help you.  There are many free resources that can be found on ProtectUK that can support and inform you.  The National Counter Terrorism Security Office is also working on a scheme to upskill 'competent people' and ensure consultants working in this field have the necessary expertise and knowledge. These plans are still in development.  

The Security Industry Authority (SIA) has been proposed in the draft Bill as the Regulator.  More details on its role and any inspection regime will follow.

This will depend on the size and complexity of your setting.  For a medium sized school or college, I will likely need to spend a 0.5-2 days on site.  This will inform a detailed report which will include recommendations for your site.  A larger more complex site may take more time. 

Of course.  I will look to support you in any way I can.  Drop me a line and we can talk through your concerns.

The cost of my consultation will depend on the size and complexity of your education setting.  Discounted rates are available for multi-academy trusts which I will happily talk you through.  For complex (Enhanced Tier) sites, quotes will depend on a number of factors including size, location and type of campus.