Shrewsbury BID to host major counter terrorism workshop for Shropshire businesses ahead of Martyn’s Law

News from our partners: Shrewsbury BID

Shrewsbury BID is inviting organisations and businesses from across Shropshire to a free counter terrorism awareness workshop, delivered by specialist Counter Terrorism Security Advisors from West Midlands Counter Terrorism Policing this month.

The workshop will take place at The Buttermarket, Howard Street, Shrewsbury, on Monday 23 November from 4pm to 6pm. The Counter Terrorism Security Advisors (CTSAs), who will deliver the workshop, provide the UK’s official protective security advice.

The session is open to staff at all levels, from organisations of every size and sector, whether or not Martyn’s Law applies to them. Attendees will gain a clearer understanding of the current threat level and a practical starting point for their own plans; covering evacuation, invacuation, lockdown and communication.

Shrewsbury BID is hosting a free counter terrorism awareness workshop at The Buttermarket on Monday 23 November, 4–6pm (Photo: Shrewsbury BID)

Martyn’s Law, formally the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, is expected to come into force in spring 2027. It will require those responsible for qualifying premises, such as shops, food and drink venues and entertainment spaces where 200 or more people may be present at once, to have public protection procedures in place. Larger premises and events of 800 or more will face additional requirements.

Catherine Harmer, Safer Shrewsbury Coordinator at Shrewsbury BID, said:

“Many businesses and organisations are thinking about Martyn’s Law and what it means for them, and we’re glad to give them free access to expert counter terrorism advice as they prepare. The workshop is open to staff from businesses and community groups in every sector across Shropshire, whether or not Martyn’s Law directly applies to them, because keeping people safe is a job we all share. Our thanks go to Counter Terrorism Policing West Midlands for delivering the session.”

Helen Ball, Town Clerk of Shrewsbury Town Council, contributed to the UK Government’s consultation on Martyn’s Law. She said:

“Martyn’s Law represents an important step forward in strengthening public safety, and it is essential that businesses understand the legislation and the responsibilities it brings.

“Training sessions like this provide a valuable opportunity to build awareness, understand what action may be required and ensure appropriate measures are in place. Compliance is not simply about meeting a legal requirement; it is about creating a culture of preparedness and ensuring everyone plays their part in keeping the public safe. I would encourage local businesses to take advantage of this training.”

Claire Doster, Manager of The Buttermarket, completed the free ACT Awareness e-learning with her team and will be attending the event as a business representative as well as supporting it as the host venue. She said:

“The e-learning took less than an hour to complete and gave us valuable insight to enhance the way we think about the safety of our staff and customers. It’s the kind of knowledge you hope never to use, but you’d never want to be without it. I’m really glad to see Shrewsbury BID making this kind of training and level of workshop available to businesses, and I’d urge everyone to take up a place.”

This workshop is an awareness session, not a compliance check. Attendees will leave knowing what good preparation looks like and what their next steps should be. Before attending, businesses are strongly encouraged to complete the free ACT Awareness e-learning from ProtectUK. It takes around 45 minutes, and the workshop will build on it to give further learning.

Places are free to Shropshire businesses, but advance booking is essential. Book now: Counter Terrorism Awareness Workshop Tickets, Monday 23 November  •  4 PM – 6 PM | Eventbrite

Notes to editors

About Martyn’s Law 

The Terrorsm (Protection of Premises) Act 2025 is named after Martyn Hett, who was killed in the Manchester Arena attack in 2017. It sets a legal minimum standard for qualifying premises and events to prepare for a terrorist attack. Guidance is available from ProtectUK and GOV.UK.