If you're just looking for the funding link, then skip to the bottom, but it would be worth taking a couple of minutes to have a read through this ...

Back in September we issued an article about Martyn's Law and how we can help you with preparing for this coming into force. As the UK prepares for the implementation of Martyn’s Law, educational establishments are being urged to take proactive steps to enhance their emergency preparedness. As part of this preparation North East Time Recorders is proud to offer supply, installation, connection, and commissioning of Luminite’s ALERTEX wireless lockdown systems — a robust solution designed to help educational institutions meet the new legal requirements and protect their communities.

Martyn’s Law, officially known as the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, was passed in April 2025 and introduces a duty for publicly accessible locations, including schools, to have proportionate security measures in place. Although the law won’t come into force until at least 2027, the education sector is already within scope. All early years, primary, secondary, and further education settings will fall under the Standard Tier, meaning they must have documented plans for lockdown, evacuation, and communication in the event of a terrorist incident.

This is where Luminite’s ALERTEX system excels. Designed specifically for lockdown scenarios, ALERTEX units are visually and audibly distinct from fire alarms, reducing confusion during emergencies. The system includes wireless call-points, sounder/beacons, voice annunciators, and portable key fobs — all battery-powered and capable of forming a mesh network with a range of up to 1km. When activated, all units on site respond instantly, providing a clear, site-wide alert. 

For larger educational estates, you can link multiple devices across different zones to be monitored and controlled remotely. Schools can receive text and email alerts, track battery status, and identify which unit was triggered — all from a central dashboard.

With Martyn’s Law on the horizon, now is the time for schools to act. Fortunately, the UK government’s Condition Improvement Fund (CIF) offers a timely opportunity to secure funding for these vital systems. The CIF is designed to help eligible academies, sixth-form colleges, and voluntary aided schools maintain safe and compliant buildings. Projects that address health and safety, safeguarding, and compliance — including lockdown systems — are considered high priority. 

Applications for the 2026–2027 CIF round are now open, with a submission deadline around 16 December 2025. Successful applicants will be notified in Spring 2026, and approved projects must be completed by March 2028. Schools are encouraged to begin preparing bids now, including conducting condition surveys and gathering technical advice. 

North East Time Recorders is ready to support schools through every step of this process — from system design and installation to documentation and compliance. By acting now, schools can ensure they are not only prepared for Martyn’s Law but also making the most of available funding to protect their staff and students.

For more information on the Condition Improvement Fund and how to apply, visit the official guidance page: 

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/schools-and-colleges-apply-for-the-condition-improvement-fund.