From September 2026, all schools will be required to have a dedicated Allergy Safety Policy, ensure all staff receive allergy awareness and emergency response training, and keep spare adrenaline auto-injectors (AAIs) on site for use in an emergency. These new requirements, known as Benedict's Law, form part of the Children's Wellbeing and Schools Act 2026.

The guidance has been introduced to strengthen the safety and wellbeing of children and young people with allergies in school. It establishes a consistent approach across all schools in England to allergy management, emergency preparedness and staff training.

These changes will provide greater protection and support for pupils with allergies. Parents and carers should continue to provide their child's prescribed medication and ensure that their Individual Healthcare Plan (IHP) remains up to date, as school-held spare AAIs are intended for emergency use only and do not replace a pupil's own prescribed medication.