Benedict’s Law given House of Lords assent to change allergy policy in schools from September 2026

A new law aimed at improving student safety in England is poised to require schools to maintain readily available epinephrine auto-injectors – commonly known as allergy pens – and implement comprehensive allergy policies. The legislation, known as ‘Benedict’s Law,’ is a direct response to the tragic death of a young boy and a sustained campaign by his parents.

The Story Behind Benedict’s Law

Five-year-old Benedict Blythe died in December 2021 after experiencing a severe allergic reaction while at Barnack Primary School. Following his death, his parents, Helen and Pete Blythe, dedicated themselves to advocating for changes to protect other children with allergies. Their efforts, alongside allergy charities, clinicians, and patient groups, have culminated in an amendment to the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill.

Did You Know? Alicia Kearns, MP for Rutland and Stamford, and Baroness Nicky Morgan proposed the amendment to the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill.

Legislative Progress and Next Steps

The amendment has been accepted by the House of Lords and is scheduled for its third reading on Monday, February 9. If passed, the bill will then return to the House of Commons for final approval and royal assent, officially enacting it into law.

Once the law takes effect, schools will be mandated to keep adrenaline auto-injector pens on site. They will also be required to provide staff training on how to recognize and respond to allergic reactions and anaphylaxis, and to establish a school-wide allergy policy.

Expert Insight: The passage of ‘Benedict’s Law’ represents a significant step towards creating a safer environment for students with allergies. By requiring schools to proactively prepare for allergic emergencies, the legislation aims to reduce the risk of potentially life-threatening reactions and ensure a more inclusive learning experience for all children.

Helen Blythe expressed her excitement and gratitude, stating that the amendment demonstrates widespread political support for protecting pupils with allergies. She noted that this legislation offers the opportunity for “robust, enforceable legislation” and that a generation of children will enter school with allergy protections in place starting in September.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is ‘Benedict’s Law’?

‘Benedict’s Law’ is an amendment to the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill that requires schools in England to keep spare allergy pens on the premises, provide staff training, and have a school-wide allergy policy.

When will these changes take effect?

The changes are expected to take effect in September, meaning schools will be required to comply with the new regulations by that time, assuming the bill receives royal assent.

Who championed this legislation?

The legislation was championed by Helen and Pete Blythe, the parents of Benedict Blythe, along with Alicia Kearns (Con) and Baroness Nicky Morgan (Con).

As schools prepare for these changes, what additional resources or support do you think will be most crucial for successful implementation?