Schools play a vital role in keeping children safe. For pupils who have serious allergies, that responsibility needs to include having clear procedures, trained staff and the right emergency equipment on hand. That's exactly why Benedicts Law has been introduced. It comes into effect from September 2026.

The new guidance is named in memory of five-year-old Benedict Blythe, who died following an allergic reaction at school in 2021. The aim is to improve allergy safety across schools in England. It creates a more consistent approach, helping schools better prevent, recognise and respond to allergic reactions and anaphylaxis.

What is Benedicts law?

Benedicts law is a set of allergy safety measures designed to protect pupils with allergies. The guidance introduces new expectations around school policies, staff training, emergency medication and individual healthcare planning.

The Department for Education has announced that schools will be required to stock spare adrenaline auto-injectors (AAIs). They will also need to provide allergy awareness training for staff and maintain clear allergy management procedures.

For many schools, these measures build on existing good practice. However, they also help ensure that allergy safety does not vary from one setting to another.

What changes will schools need to make?

Schools should review their current arrangements and ensure they can demonstrate a robust approach to allergy management.

Key requirements include:

A whole-school allergy policy

Schools should have a dedicated policy that explains how allergies are identified, managed and monitored. The policy should also set out emergency procedures and responsibilities.

Staff training

All staff who may come into contact with pupils should understand:

• Common allergens
• Signs of an allergic reaction
• Signs of anaphylaxis
• How to use an adrenaline auto-injector
• Emergency response procedures

Training helps staff act quickly and confidently when every second counts.

Emergency medication

Schools will need to have spare adrenaline auto-injectors that can be used during an emergency. These should be stored appropriately and be easily accessible.

Individual healthcare plans

Pupils with significant allergies should have clear, up-to-date healthcare plans because these outline allergens, symptoms, medication requirements and emergency contacts.

Why training matters

Even the best policies are only effective if staff understand how to apply them. Allergic reactions can develop rapidly and delays in treatment can have serious consequences.

Effective training gives staff the knowledge to recognise symptoms early and take the correct action. It also helps create a culture where allergy awareness becomes part of everyday school life.

From teachers and teaching assistants to catering teams and lunchtime supervisors, everyone has a role to play.

Preparing for the future

For many schools, Benedicts law is an opportunity to strengthen existing arrangements and build confidence among staff, pupils and parents. By reviewing procedures, delivering appropriate training and ensuring emergency medication is available, schools can create a safer environment for everyone.

Ultimately, Benedicts law is about more than compliance. It is about giving children with allergies the opportunity to learn, participate and thrive in school with greater safety and support.

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