AUCSO Releases Framework for Campus Terrorism Compliance
The TO PROTECT Model helps higher education institutions navigate security requirements mandated by the upcoming Martyn’s Law legislation.
- By Jesse Jacobs
- April 10, 2026
The Association of University Chief Security Officers (AUCSO) has launched a new operational framework to assist higher education institutions in meeting the requirements of the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025.
The "TO PROTECT Model" provides a structured approach for universities to implement the "Protect Duty," commonly known as Martyn’s Law. Developed by security leads at University College London and the University of Hertfordshire, the model addresses the specific challenges of maintaining security within open, highly accessible campus environments.
The framework organizes legislative requirements into nine pillars, including governance, risk assessment, protective measures and emergency preparedness. Because many universities manage large populations and diverse estates, they are expected to fall under the "enhanced duty" tier of the legislation.
This sector-led initiative arrives ahead of formal statutory guidance from the government, allowing institutions to begin early planning and organizational training. The model focuses on conducting Terrorism Vulnerability Risk Assessments (TVRA) and implementing layered security measures that do not compromise the open nature of academic institutions.
The framework emphasizes that protective security must be embedded into institutional culture rather than existing as an isolated department. It seeks to ensure that campuses remain resilient against evolving threats while demonstrating regulatory compliance through structured documentation.