New UK Law: Allergy Pens for Every School

Effective from September 2026, all schools in England will be required to store life-saving allergy pens, also known as adrenaline auto-injectors, under newly published government guidance. Named Benedict's Law, this initiative will also mandate training for teachers to ensure swift emergency responses.

The nationwide requirements follow extensive campaigning by the National Allergy Strategy Group and families, including the parents of five-year-old Benedict Blythe, who tragically died in 2021 after an allergic reaction at school. The Department for Education confirmed that schools must also implement clear allergy policies and healthcare plans.

Education Minister Olivia Bailey stated that Benedict's Law ensures every school will have the necessary training, plans, and equipment to protect children with allergies. Mrs. Blythe highlighted this as a historic turning point, moving from inconsistent safety measures to clear national expectations for allergy safety in schools.

Benedict's death in December 2021 after accidental exposure to cow's milk protein led to an inquest that identified failures in preventing the reaction and delays in administering an adrenaline pen. A coroner's report noted that preserving evidence was crucial for identifying causes earlier.

Public Health Minister Sharon Hodgson emphasized that Benedict's Law is a landmark achievement, underscoring the essential nature of proper training, clear plans, and adrenaline devices in every school. Sarah Knight, chief executive of The Allergy Team, noted the guidance provides schools with greater clarity to protect allergic pupils. However, union representatives called for necessary funding to ensure schools have adequate staffing and specialist health support.