Proper allergy management in schools 'difference between life and death', teachers warn

Introducing proper allergy management training in schools could prove to be “life and death” in Scottish schools, teachers have said.

The National Association of Schoolmasters/Union of Women Teachers (NASUWT), is calling on the Scottish Government to introduce training in schools to protect children with severe allergies.

Westminster recently introduced Benedict’s Law – which has seen schools south of the border introduce measures to thwart the consequences of life-threatening allergic reactions, and the teachers’ union wants Scotland to follow suit.

Benedict’s Law has led to the introduction of mandatory adrenaline pens in schools, as well as training for staff so they are better equipped to deal with such scenarios should they arise on campus.

The NASUWT carried out a survey across the UK in 2024 which found that 95% of teachers said there were pupils at their school with food allergies, but only 40% said schools have an allergy policy in place.

Two-thirds (67%) had never had any awareness training, and 62% said such training would be beneficial.

It comes ahead of the union’s annual conference, which takes place on Friday 8 and Saturday 9.

Matt Wrack, NASUWT general secretary, said: “Adequate training, resources and awareness on allergy management can make the difference between life and death in some cases.

“We have welcomed the introduction of Benedict’s Law in England and we believe children north of the border deserve the same protection.

“Allergy management measures must be accompanied with additional funding to resource the stocking of adrenaline pens and training for all staff on allergy management.”

Mike Corbett, NASUWT Scotland national official, added: “One in five severe allergic reactions to food happen when a child is at school.

“Putting in place national mandatory allergy management measures would ensure all children get the same protection, no matter where they go to school.

“It would also ensure teachers and school leaders get the support they need to maintain the safety of the pupils they teach.”

Councils are legally responsible for the safety of children and young people in Scotland’s schools.

Local authorities already have the power to use funding to take the action they deem necessary to protect children and young people with allergies from harm while at schools.

It is understood that to support schools the Scottish Government has issued national guidance which provides information on ensuring the safety of pupils with food allergies.

It also makes clear that schools must arrange specialist training for staff where a pupil in their care has been diagnosed as being at risk of anaphylaxis.