Benedict's Law
Preparing for Benedict's Law
What Schools Need to Know Now
The UK government is currently consulting on updated statutory guidance that will significantly strengthen how schools manage medical conditions particularly severe allergies.
Often referred to as “Benedict’s Law”, these changes are expected to come into force from September 2026, with the consultation closing in May 2026. While the final wording is still subject to change, the direction is clear, Schools will be expected to take a more structured, proactive, and accountable approach to allergy safety.
What is changing?
The proposed updates build on existing guidance around supporting pupils with medical conditions but introduce clearer expectations and stronger accountability, particularly around allergies. From what has been published so far, schools will likely be required to:
Why this matters
For many schools, allergy management has historically relied on a small number of trained staff or informal processes.The new direction suggests a move toward:
- Whole-school responsibility (not just first aiders)
- Consistent systems and documentation
- Evidence of training and compliance
- Preventative risk management, not just emergency response
One of the most significant implications is around training. Current proposals indicate that staff should be able to:
- Recognise allergic reactions, including early signs of anaphylaxis
- Respond quickly and appropriately in an emergency
- Administer adrenaline auto-injectors with confidence
- Understand their role within the schools' allergy policy and procedures
A shift towards systems and not just skills
Another key theme emerging from the consultation is the importance of systems and accountability. Schools are expected to demonstrate:
- Clear policies and leadership ownership
- Effective communication between staff
- Robust record-keeping (including near misses)
- Regular review and improvement of practice
What we expect moving forward
While the consultation is still ongoing and the final guidance will not be confirmed until May 2026, several outcomes appear likely:
1. Allergy safety becomes standard compliance
Much like safeguarding or fire safety, allergy management is likely to become a core operational requirement for all schools.
2. Increased focus on evidence and audit
Schools will need to show:
- who has been trained
- what systems are in place
- how incidents are recorded and reviewed
3. Greater emphasis on prevention
4. More consistent training across all staff
Training is expected to extend beyond teaching staff to include:
- lunchtime supervisors
- temporary and supply staff
- support staff
A note on the consultation
It is important to recognise that:
❗ The guidance is still in consultation and may change before being finalised in May 2026.
However, the overall direction is unlikely to reverse, and schools that begin preparing early will be in a stronger position when the requirements become statutory.
How schools can prepare now
Even at this stage, there are practical steps schools can take:
Review current allergy policies and procedures
Identify pupils with allergies and check IHPs are in place and up to date
Assess current staff training levels
Consider how incidents and near misses are recorded and reviewed
Early action now can reduce pressure later and help ensure a smooth transition to the new requirements.
Final thoughts
Benedict’s Law represents an important shift in how schools approach allergy safety moving from reactive response to proactive, whole-school management. While we await final confirmation of the guidance, the message is already clear:
Allergy safety is becoming a fundamental part of school safeguarding and compliance.
