Benedict’s Law explained
Benedict’s Law explained
Benedict’s Law is new legislation that makes it a legal requirement for schools to have allergy safety measures in place.
The law says that all schools in England will have to have an allergy safety policy which is reviewed regularly and published on their website.
When creating this policy, schools must follow the new statutory guidance called “Supporting children and young people with medical conditions and allergy” (currently in draft form) which will be effective from September 2026.
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The law is named after five-year-old Benedict Blythe who died following an allergic reaction at his primary school in December 2021.
What does Benedict's Law mean for my school?
The regulations that go alongside Benedict's Law haven't been published yet, but the new law gives the government powers to make more specific requirements, including:
- what schools need to include in their allergy policies
- stocking adrenaline devices like EpiPens
- allergy awareness training for all staff
- mandatory recording and reporting allergic incidents
- having a named staff responsible for allergy management
Does Benedict's Law apply to all schools?
Benedict’s Law applies to all schools in England, including independent and non-maintained special schools.
When do schools have to start complying with Benedict's Law?
Benedict’s Law is part of the new Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill. The government says it wants to introduce the new regulations as soon as possible but has committed to giving schools at least a term’s notice.
Does Benedict's Law replace the new statutory guidance planned for September 2026?
No. The new statutory guidance, which has already been published in draft form, tells schools how to meet their legal duties under Benedict’s Law. Schools must "have regard to" it, meaning you are legally required to take it into account when creating and reviewing your policies.