Blake Morgan barrister to speak at CLOA Roundtable on Martyn’s Law

Blake Morgan is pleased to announce that Jamila Bernard-Stevenson, Associate Barrister in the firm’s Regulatory department, will be speaking at the upcoming Chief Cultural & Leisure Officers Association (CLOA) roundtable event. The session, titled “Preparing for the Implementation of Martyn’s Law”, will take place online on 4 December 2025 from 10am to midday.

The roundtable will explore how public sector culture and leisure services are preparing for the introduction of Martyn’s Law, officially known as the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, which is expected to come into force in April 2027. This legislation introduces a tiered framework of protective measures—Standard Tier, Enhanced Tier, and Qualifying Events—based on the size and nature of premises or events.

Jamila will be representing Blake Morgan as the firm’s legal voice on the panel, offering expert insight into the legal implications of Martyn’s Law for local authorities. Her contribution will help attendees understand the regulatory responsibilities and compliance challenges that councils and cultural institutions will face under the new law.

“Martyn’s Law represents a significant shift in how local authorities must approach public safety,” said Jamila Bernard-Stevenson.

The session will also feature perspectives from CLOA Executive Members, Dan Buck, Corporate Director at Lee Valley Regional Park Authority, discussing venues that fall under all three tiers, and Rob Campbell, Managing Director of Culture & Heritage Services at Bath & North East Somerset Council, sharing preparations at the Roman Baths—a high-volume visitor attraction.

There will be input from the National Counter Terrorism Security Office, a police-hosted unit that supports the UK government focusing on the threat posed from terrorism and ways venues and public places can improve their counter terrorism security and readiness.

This event is particularly important for local authorities, who must begin preparing now for the operational and legal changes Martyn’s Law will bring. From safeguarding public venues to implementing risk assessments and staff training, the law will require a proactive and coordinated response across departments.

As an Associate Sponsor of CLOA, Blake Morgan is proud to support this vital conversation. The firm has a long-standing commitment to helping public sector clients navigate complex legal landscapes, and Jamila’s participation underscores our dedication to promoting safety, compliance, and resilience in cultural and leisure services.