Martyn’s Law, officially known as the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, is a new law designed to increase security in public spaces. Named in memory of Martyn Hett, one of the victims of the 2017 Manchester Arena bombing, the law focuses on ensuring that public venues are better prepared for potential terrorist threats. This includes doing risk assessments, training staff, adding security checks, and importantly, making Public Access Trauma Kits (PAcT Kits) available on site.
These kits are made to help members of the public give basic, life-saving care in an emergency, before medics arrive. In this blog, we’ll explain what PAcT Kits are, why they matter, where they’re needed, and how businesses can get ready before the law comes into force.
What are PAcT Kits?
PAcT stands for Public Access Trauma Kit. These kits are specifically designed for use by members of the public in the event of a serious emergency such as a terrorist attack, mass casualty incident, or severe accident.
Why are they needed?
Because in the chaos of an emergency, every second counts. There have been many instances where bystanders were ready and willing to help but simply didn’t have the right tools at hand. PAcT Kits are designed to bridge that gap, letting people provide immediate, basic trauma care before emergency responders can arrive.
What is Martyn’s Law?
The Act received Royal Assent on 3rd April 2025, and will now enter a two-year implementation period. This phase allows businesses time to prepare and for regulatory systems to be established before the law is fully enforced.
Requirements under Martyn’s Law include:
- Risk assessments for potential threats
- Security and emergency training for staff
- Additional physical safety measures like bag checks and metal detectors (large events/businesses)
- Clearly accessible Public Access Trauma Kits
In short, if you’re running a public venue or planning a major event, you’re expected to comply, so getting ready now future proofs your business.
Who needs PAcT Kits?
The reality is that any location where large numbers of people gather could benefit from having trauma kits on hand. These include:
- Sports stadiums
- Concert venues
- Shopping centres
- Airports and train stations
- Outdoor events like Christmas markets or festivals
Example: Darlington Council bought PAcT Kits with a scenario in mind – a vehicle being driven into one of their busy Christmas markets. It’s a horrifying thought, but not an impossible one. In those first few minutes before medics arrive, having PAcT Kits available and accessible could mean the difference between life and death.
And terrorism is not the only situation where a PAcT kit could be of use. They are also relevant for active shooter incidents, severe accidents, or any scenario involving multiple injuries and potential delays in emergency response.
What’s inside a compliant PAcT Kit?
Government guidance is still being developed to outline what the minimum requirements are for PAcT Kits, but the basic contents of a PAcT Kit are commonly believed to be:
- 4 x large trauma wound dressings
- 2 x trauma shears/scissors
- 2 x tourniquets & pens (for writing time of application)
- 2 x CPR face shields, nitrile gloves (PPE equipment)
- 2 x triangular bandage
- Clear instructions/first aid contents list
They’re usually stored in clearly marked, easily transportable bags so they can be quickly given out to those on the scene.
At Turtle Medical, we believe that just meeting the minimum really isn’t enough, so our Enhanced PAcT Kits go a step further. They include:
- Better-quality tools (like windlass tourniquets rather than basic straps)
- Additional wound dressings which we feel are essentials- celox gauze and vented chest seal for torso wounds
- Step-by-step visual instructions suitable for complete beginners
- Durable, water-resistant bags with clear labelling
If you’re a business or venue operator, opting for enhanced kits will ensure compliance but also show genuine care for public (and staff) safety. And reputation in business matters.
How businesses can prepare for Martyn’s Law
Martyn’s Law may still be going through an implementation period, but the message is clear: prepare now, not later. Here’s how you can start getting ready:
Create an emergency response plan
Make sure you include trauma kit usage in your emergency procedures. Think about where kits will be stored, who will distribute them, and how they will be used in different scenarios.
Train your staff
Whilst these kits are meant for public use, staff should still understand what’s in them and how they should be deployed. Basic bleed control and first aid training is a great first step.
Make kits visible
Add PAcT Kits to your website’s navigation menus, signage at events, and site maps. Visibility will make sure that people know they’re there and can access them in a crisis.
Start talking about it
Whether through blogs, newsletters, or social media, one of the most powerful things you can do is to start educating your audience. Use terms like “public access trauma kit,” “PAcT kit,” and “mass casualty first aid” to help encourage awareness.
Final thoughts
We can’t always stop emergencies from happening, but we can be ready for them. PAcT Kits are a practical way to help people act quickly when it matters most. Many venues, businesses, and councils are already preparing by buying kits and training staff ahead of the new law. Demand is growing, and it’s easy to see why. In an emergency, having the right tools close by can and will save lives.
Have questions about PAcT Kits or need help preparing your business for Martyn’s Law? Talk to our friendly team, we’d be happy to answer your questions and ensure you have the right medical equipment.