From September 2026, schools must follow new statutory allergy-safety guidance, commonly known as Benedict’s Law. The law is named in memory of Benedict Blythe, who tragically died following an allergic reaction at school.

To support these requirements, we have introduced a new Allergy Safety Policy. This strengthens the arrangements already in place at St Michael & St Martin Catholic Primary School and helps us to provide a safe, inclusive environment for every child.

Under the new arrangements:

• staff will receive regular allergy-awareness and emergency-response training;
• pupils requiring additional support will have an Individual Healthcare Plan;
• prescribed emergency medication must remain readily accessible;
• the school will hold spare adrenaline auto-injectors for emergency use, in accordance with national guidance;
• allergic reactions and near misses will be recorded and reviewed; and
• reasonable steps will be taken to reduce the risk of pupils being exposed to known allergens.

How parents and carers can help

Please:

• inform the school immediately if your child has a diagnosed or suspected allergy, or if their condition changes;
• provide an up-to-date Allergy Action Plan or other relevant medical information;
• ensure that all prescribed medication is supplied to school, clearly labelled and within its expiry date;
• check lunchboxes and snacks carefully and follow any allergy-safety instructions issued by the school;
• remind children never to share or swap food, drinks or eating utensils; and
• do not send birthday cakes, sweets or other treats into school.

Although it is not possible for any school to guarantee a completely allergen-free environment, we are committed to taking all reasonable precautions and building a strong, whole-school culture of allergy awareness.

Our new Allergy Safety Policy is available on the school website. If your child has an allergy, and you have not recently updated the school, please contact the school office as soon as possible.

Thank you for working in partnership with us to keep every member of our school community safe.