Who is the responsible person under Martyn’s Law?
The duty sits with whoever controls the premises for the use that brings it into scope.
Under Martyn’s Law the responsible person is the person or organisation in control of the premises in connection with the use that brings it into scope — usually the operator, owner, trustees or management committee. They can get help with tasks but cannot hand over the legal responsibility. Enhanced tier organisations must also designate a senior individual.
What if the building has more than one use?
A hall with a café, a hotel with a public bar, a park with a club: the Home Office’s principal-use rules, published in September 2026, decide which use counts and who is responsible. If in doubt, write down how you reached your view.
Can I delegate it?
You can delegate the tasks — writing the procedures, briefing staff — to a manager or an adviser. You cannot delegate the duty itself.
What is a designated senior individual?
For enhanced tier premises and qualifying events run by an organisation, a senior person must be designated with responsibility. It does not apply to the standard tier.
Before you pay anyone: the Home Office says premises do not need to buy consultancy to meet the standard tier, and its guidance, the SIA’s guidance and the ProtectUK training are free. Neither the Home Office nor the SIA endorses any provider, including us. The legal responsibility stays with the person responsible for the premises; we help with the work, we do not take the duty off you.
Want a second pair of eyes on it?
Send the venue type, the most people you would expect in at once, and how many sites you run. We will tell you which tier you look to be in and whether the free route is enough before quoting anything.
Common questions
Who is responsible when a village hall is hired out?
Usually the body in control of the premises, such as the trustees or committee, not the hirer.
Can a consultant be the responsible person?
No. A consultant can help with the tasks, but the legal duty stays with the person or organisation in control of the premises.