From 1 September 2026, all schools in England will be expected to follow new statutory guidance on allergy safety, commonly known as Benedict’s Law. The guidance introduces a consistent national approach to managing allergies in schools and aims to improve the prevention, recognition and treatment of serious allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis.
The guidance has been developed following the death of a pupil from an allergic reaction and seeks to ensure that allergy safety does not depend on which school a child attends. Around 20% of serious food-allergic reactions in children occur in school settings.
What schools need to have in place
Schools should review their current arrangements and ensure the following measures are in place:
- A whole-school allergy policy outlining how allergies are managed and how emergencies will be responded to.
- An up-to-date allergy register and systems for identifying pupils with allergies through admissions, annual updates and communication with parents and healthcare professionals.
- Individual Healthcare Plans (IHPs) and allergy/anaphylaxis action plans for pupils with diagnosed allergies.
- Allergy awareness and anaphylaxis training for all staff appropriate to their role.
- Spare emergency Adrenaline Auto-Injectors (AAIs), such as EpiPens, available, in date and readily accessible for emergencies.
- Effective recording, investigation and review of allergy incidents and near misses.
- Appropriate arrangements within catering, food education activities, celebrations, educational visits and other school activities to manage allergy risks and reduce cross-contamination.
Resources available from Somerset Council
The Health and Safety Service has published Allergy Safety in Schools: Guidance on Benedict’s Law (Info Sheet 88) to help schools understand and implement the new requirements. The guidance includes:
- Practical implementation advice
- Information on obtaining spare AAIs
- Special school considerations
- Educational visit requirements
- A school allergy management checklist
- Template pharmacy request letter
- Links to model policies and training resources
An Allergy Awareness PowerPoint and Quiz is available on Blackboard for Headteachers and SLT members to deliver as a face-to-face training session to school staff.
Schools are encouraged to review their arrangements before September 2026 to ensure they are prepared for the new expectations and can provide a safe environment for pupils with allergies.
