Starting this September, schools are required to have life-saving allergy pens on hand for emergencies, according to new official guidelines released on Monday. The guidelines also mandate allergy training for teachers and the establishment of clear allergy policies and healthcare plans in all schools.
Ministers stated that these measures will ensure consistent national standards, guaranteeing that every school is equipped with the necessary training, plans, and adrenaline devices. This development follows the tragic death of five-year-old Benedict, who suffered a fatal anaphylactic reaction to cow’s milk at school in 2021, prompting his parents, Helen and Peter Blythe, to advocate tirelessly for these changes.
Helen Blythe, co-Founder of the Benedict Blythe Foundation and Benedict’s mother, expressed optimism, calling it a significant milestone for children with allergies and their families. Education Minister Olivia Bailey also praised the new guidelines, emphasizing the importance of providing a safe environment for all children.
Sarah Knight, chief executive of the Allergy Team, hailed the guidelines as a crucial step forward in safeguarding children with allergies. However, Paul Whiteman, general secretary of school leaders’ union NAHT, raised concerns about the practical implementation of the guidelines, particularly regarding staffing and funding issues.
He emphasized the importance of ensuring an adequate supply of adrenaline auto-injectors in schools and proper management of their storage, expiration, and re-ordering processes. Whiteman also noted the necessity for the government to oversee the procurement of these devices to prevent shortages and ensure the safety of all students.
The initial draft of the guidance was introduced in March before undergoing a consultation process to gather feedback and refine the final recommendations.
