From September, schools across England will keep life-saving allergy pens on site under new government guidance introduced through Benedict’s Law. The new measures aim to make schools safer for children with severe allergies after the death of five-year-old Benedict Blythe, who suffered a fatal allergic reaction at school in 2021.
The reforms improve allergy awareness, strengthen emergency responses and help schools prepare to protect pupils with allergies.
Benedict’s Law Introduces New School Allergy Rules
Under Benedict’s Law, schools across England will introduce new safety measures that better protect children with allergies.
Schools Must Introduce Key Safety Measures
Schools will be required to:
- Keep spare emergency allergy pens on site.
- Create a whole-school allergy policy.
- Train all staff to recognise and respond to allergic reactions.
- Prepare individual healthcare plans for pupils with allergies.
These requirements will become part of statutory guidance that takes effect in September.
Benedict Blythe’s Story Inspired the New Law
The government introduced the new safety measures following the death of five-year-old Benedict Blythe, who accidentally consumed cow’s milk protein while attending school.
Benedict had asthma and several severe allergies, including allergies to milk, eggs and nuts. read more
Family Hopes to Prevent Future Tragedies
Benedict’s mother, Helen Blythe, said the new rules will make schools much safer for children with allergies and help staff respond confidently during emergencies.
She explained that although the family had worked with the school to create an allergy action plan, staff did not follow the agreed procedures.
Research Highlights Gaps in School Allergy Safety
Research carried out by the Benedict Blythe Foundation found that many schools were not fully prepared to deal with severe allergic reactions.
Survey Revealed Safety Concerns
The research found that:
- Half of schools did not keep spare allergy medication.
- One-third had no allergy policy.
- Around 70% lacked many of the safety measures now being introduced.
The findings highlighted the need for consistent allergy safety standards across schools.
Benedict’s Law Will Become a Legal Requirement
The new guidance will take effect from September, giving schools clear instructions on improving allergy safety.
Legal Duties Begin in 2027
From 2027, Benedict’s Law will become a legal requirement for:
- State schools.
- Independent schools.
- Fee-paying special schools.
Schools will be legally required to maintain allergy policies, train staff and keep emergency allergy medication available.
Government Supports Benedict’s Law
Education Minister Olivia Bailey said every child deserves to feel safe and included at school. She praised Benedict’s parents for helping bring lasting improvements to school allergy safety. know more
New Rules Aim to Protect Future Generations
Benedict’s parents believe these measures could have saved their son’s life if they had been in place earlier. They hope Benedict’s Law will protect thousands of children and spare other families from experiencing a similar tragedy.
