In July 2026 the Department for Education published statutory guidance called Allergy safety in schools. It is closely linked to Benedict's Law, the campaign that followed the death of Benedict Blythe after an allergic reaction at school. For schools, it sets out what good allergy safety should look like from September 2026.
A summary, not legal advice. The guidance is new and more regulations are expected, so please read the full guidance on GOV.UK and check what applies to your setting.
What schools are expected to do
- Have a published allergy safety policy and review it at least once a year.
- Put individual healthcare plans in place for pupils who need them, developed with the child and their parents and with advice from healthcare professionals.
- Make sure adrenaline devices are available. Pupils at risk of anaphylaxis should be able to reach their own prescribed devices, and schools are expected to hold spares.
- Record serious incidents and near misses, share them with parents and governors, and use them to review the school's arrangements.
- Train staff in allergy awareness and emergency response.
Some of these points, such as annual staff training, spare auto-injectors and a named lead for allergy safety, are expected to become explicit legal duties through later regulations. Summaries of the guidance differ on how much applies straight away, which is one more reason to read the original and treat these as good practice now.
Why training matters
Allergy safety is wider than first aid. Day to day, it is about prevention: knowing which pupils are affected, what is in school meals, and how trips and clubs are planned. When something does go wrong, staff need to recognise anaphylaxis quickly and know exactly what to do while waiting for help.
That is why the guidance covers everyone on site, not just the first aiders. Catering staff, supply staff and volunteers all have a part to play.
How we can help
Our first aid courses include recognition and initial management of anaphylaxis. Paediatric First Aid is aimed at people working with children and young people, and Emergency First Aid at Work suits staff across the school. If you would like training shaped around your school, get in touch and tell us what you need.
Five ways to prepare now
- Read the guidance and compare it with your current policy.
- Check your healthcare plans are up to date for every pupil who needs one.
- Confirm your adrenaline arrangements, including spares and where they are stored.
- Plan staff training so that everyone on site knows the basics.
- Review how you record incidents and near misses, and who sees them.
Source: Department for Education, Allergy safety in schools (GOV.UK)