In September 2026, new statutory guidance—often called “Benedict’s Law”—comes into force across England to transform food allergy safety in schools. Schools are legally mandated to stock spare adrenaline auto-injectors, implement a comprehensive allergy policy, and provide emergency response training for all staff.
The new legislation requires a rigorous set of safety checks and procedures:
- Spare Adrenaline Auto-Injectors (AAIs): Schools must hold in-date, spare “pen” devices on site that can be used on any child or adult experiencing anaphylaxis.
- Mandatory Staff Training: All staff (including caretakers, mini-bus drivers, and supervisors) must undergo comprehensive allergy awareness and emergency response training.
- Comprehensive Policy: Schools must develop, publish, and maintain a dedicated allergy policy that outlines prevention, response, and risk reduction.
- Individual Healthcare Plans (IHPs): Every child with an allergy must have a detailed IHP covering their specific triggers, day-to-day management, and emergency action steps.
- Incident Reporting: Schools are required to keep robust logs of allergy incidents and near-misses to continually improve safety protocols.