The UK government has confirmed three new rules for all schools in England, set to take effect from September 2026. These measures are designed to improve allergy safety and ensure that children with allergies are protected while at school.
New Requirements for Schools
Under the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Act, schools will be required to stock spare adrenaline auto-injectors for emergency use. This is the first time such a requirement has been introduced. Additionally, all staff must undergo compulsory allergy awareness training, and each school must have a comprehensive allergy policy in place.
Impact on Children and Families
The new rules aim to prevent life-threatening allergic reactions and reduce the number of school days lost due to allergies. In the last year alone, 500,000 days of learning were lost because of allergy-related illness or medical appointments. Schools will also be required to create Individual Healthcare Plans for children with specific medical conditions, including allergy management plans.
Government Statement
Schools minister Georgia Gould said: "The government is committed to improving allergy safety in schools. The Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Act introduces a new duty requiring all schools in England to put allergy safety measures into place." She added that schools must publish their allergy policies on their websites and review them at least annually.
Consultation and Implementation
Draft statutory guidance was published for consultation on 6 March, with the consultation closing on 15 May. The final guidance is expected to be published in summer 2026, coming into effect from September 2026. The requirements will also apply to early years settings and colleges.
Support from Health Charities
Catherine Hodder, Head of Voice, Policy and Influencing at Young Epilepsy, welcomed the updated guidance. She said: "Updated and practical guidance is a welcome step towards making sure children with epilepsy are safe and included in education." She emphasized the importance of Individual Healthcare Plans in helping staff understand and respond to individual needs.
The government encourages young people and families to share their views on the consultation to help shape the final guidance.
