Introduction: Carnival as a Cultural and Operational Paradox Notting Hill Carnival is a paradox. It is both a celebration of identity and a crucible of public safety. It is a free, open-access event that draws over two million people into the streets of West London, yet it operates without the formal controls that govern most major public gatherings. It is a symbol of multicultural Britain, but also the single most resource-intensive and risk-laden event in the UK policing calendar.
The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025 , widely known as Martyn’s Law , marks a significant shift in how the UK approaches public safety at venues and events. Named in memory of Martyn Hett, a victim of the 2017 Manchester Arena attack, the law introduces a legal duty for venues to assess and mitigate terrorism risks. At Hendersons Health & Safety, we’re here to help you understand what this means - and how to prepare. Martyn’s Law requires venues and events expecting 200 or more people to take proportionate steps to protect the public from terrorist threats. For larger venues (800+ capacity), the requirements are more detailed and include formal risk assessments, staff training, and emergency planning.
Digital compliance management for storing Health & Safety documentation in platforms like SharePoint offers significant benefits, including improved audit trails, version control, and accessibility. While digital systems streamline document management, practical considerations like reliable internet access and emergency plans are essential. CDM 2015 emphasises practical accessibility, achievable with proper planning and infrastructure. Engaging workers with digital platforms through training ensures they are comfortable and actively use compliance documents, enhancing understanding and application. A hybrid approach, combining digital efficiency with practical on-site access, is effective. At Hendersons, we advocate for digital solutions like SharePoint to keep you safe and compliant while allowing you to focus on operational activities but we also realise the balance required with having paper copies available.