Martyn’s Law highlights how risk management has the power to protect lives

RiskSTOP’s Johnny Thomson reflects on how a recent conversation with two people deeply affected by acts of terrorism, brought to light the positive impact insurance driven risk management is capable of having on all our lives.

In the world of risk management, it’s easy to get caught up in technicalities – policies, frameworks, assessments, and so on.

However, at its heart, our work is about people. It’s about ensuring safety, security, and resilience in the face of unforeseen threats. This profound responsibility was brought into sharp focus for me recently during a podcast recording, where I had the privilege of speaking with Figen Murray and Nick Aldworth.

These measures won’t stop an attack, but they will make the outcome so much better than it could have been.

Figen’s story is one of unimaginable loss and extraordinary determination. In May 2017, her son, Martyn Hett, was one of 22 people killed in the Manchester Arena bombing. Her grief, compounded by the realisation that more could have been done to prevent such a tragedy, became the catalyst for a campaign to enact Martyn’s Law – formally, the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill.

Together with Nick, a former counter-terrorism lead, Figen has turned heartbreak into transformative action, championing public safety measures that aim to prevent future attacks and save lives.

This campaign, grounded in the principles of preparedness and protection, is a testament to what risk management can achieve when it prioritises humanity. It’s also a powerful reminder of the critical role the UK insurance industry can play—not just in managing financial risk, but in safeguarding the lives and livelihoods of countless individuals.

Martyn’s law: A blueprint for safety

At its core, Martyn’s Law requires publicly accessible venues to implement practical safety measures based on their capacity.

Smaller venues will need to have clear procedures for lockdowns, evacuations, and communication, while larger venues must incorporate more robust measures, including surveillance and physical security enhancements.

As Nick aptly put it when we spoke: “These measures won’t stop an attack, but they will make the outcome so much better than it could have been.”

This legislation goes beyond protecting premises – it’s about protecting people. It’s about ensuring that venues are equipped not just to respond to a crisis but to mitigate its impact, preserving lives in the process. It’s also a call to action for businesses, including those in the insurance sector, to take a proactive role in advocating for and supporting these measures.

There’s so much more to risk management

The insurance industry, through its reach and influence, has a unique opportunity to amplify the principles behind Martyn’s Law. Risk management isn’t just about fulfilling regulatory obligations or even reducing claims; it’s about creating a culture of safety and preparedness that extends beyond the walls of any single business.

Every policy we underwrite, every risk assessment we conduct, contributes to a larger framework of resilience. This framework not only mitigates financial loss, but also upholds the social fabric of our communities – ensuring that families, businesses, and public spaces remain safe and functional even in the face of adversity.

Yet, as an industry, we don’t highlight this societal impact often enough. Perhaps it’s time to change that.

Let’s talk more about the big picture

As 2025 approaches, let’s resolve to shift the narrative. 

Let’s make it a priority to talk about the social good that risk management delivers. Let’s highlight the ways we contribute to saving lives, preventing injuries, and maintaining employment and infrastructure. Let’s celebrate the human stories that underscore the importance of what we do.

Figen and Nick’s journey, chronicled in RiskSTOP’s latest podcast, is a compelling example of how risk management can be a force for good. Their work has already influenced legislation and will undoubtedly save lives. It’s a reminder that our industry, too, has the power to drive meaningful change.

As we step into the New Year, please take time to listen to my conversation with Figen and Nick. Their story is not only a testament to resilience and advocacy, but also a call to all of us to leverage our roles for the greater good.

Let’s make 2025 the year we redefine the narrative—one that acknowledges the profound, life-saving impact of effective risk management. Together, we can ensure that the tragedies of the past inspire a safer, more secure future for all.

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