Join Figen Murray OBE at the 2026 Annual Law Lecture

Taking place on Thursday 26 February 2026, the lecture will be held at Maxwell Hall on the Peel Park campus, beginning at 6:00pm. This year's event promises to be a powerful and deeply human exploration of how personal tragedy can lead to lasting legislative change.

From tragedy to legislative change

Figen Murray OBE will deliver a compelling lecture titled "From Tragedy to Legislative Change: The Journey of Martyn's Law". Figen is the mother of Martyn Hett, who tragically lost his life in the 2017 Manchester Arena attack. In the years that followed, she transformed unimaginable grief into determined advocacy, becoming the leading force behind the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, now widely known as Martyn's Law.

During the lecture, Figen will share her personal account of the events of that night and the extraordinary journey from a mother's campaign to a landmark Act of Parliament. She will outline the key provisions of Martyn's Law and explore its far-reaching implications for public venues, security responsibilities and the legal frameworks surrounding counter-terrorism in the UK.

A vital event for students and professionals

This Annual Law Lecture offers a unique opportunity for students, staff and external legal professionals to engage with the human story behind national legislation. It is particularly valuable for those studying law, criminology or public policy, providing rare insight into how individual advocacy can drive systemic and legislative change. The event is organised by Dr Emma Roberts and Dr Ayesha Chowdhury.

Event details

• Date: Thursday 26 February 2026
• Location: Maxwell Hall, Peel Park Campus, University of Salford
• Timings:
  • 18:00 - Doors open
  • 18:10 - Dean's welcome
  • 16.15 - "From Tragedy to Legislative Change: The Journey of Martyn's Law" by Figen Murray OBE
  • 19.45 - Refreshments

Attendance is free, but booking is essential. Please register for your ticket via Eventbrite:
From Tragedy to Legislative Change: The Journey of Martyn's Law

This promises to be a memorable and meaningful evening, highlighting the power of law not just as a system of rules, but as a force shaped by real people, real loss and real change.