07/09/2026
ALLERGY TRAINING MUST MEAN MORE THAN A TICK IN A BOX.
As schools across England begin putting Benedict’s Law into practice, the Benedict Blythe Foundation has raised serious concerns about reports from school staff who do not feel their training has equipped them adequately , including short videos watched alongside other INSET activities and online multiple-choice exercises.
The Foundation’s message is clear: the purpose is not simply to complete training. It is to ensure every adult responsible for children with allergies has the knowledge and understanding to recognise a reaction and know what to do.
This is rooted in a devastating reality. At Benedict’s school, staff had seen allergy training videos, but that training was found not to have given them sufficient knowledge and understanding to keep him safe. Benedict died after an allergic reaction at school. He was five years old.
The concerns and position described here belong to the Benedict Blythe Foundation. Skillbase First Aid is sharing them with respect, not speaking on the Foundation’s behalf.
Schools now have an opportunity , and a responsibility , to make this change meaningful. Please ask:
✓ Does the training build genuine knowledge?
✓ Can staff recognise an allergic reaction?
✓ Do they know how to respond when a child needs them?
Benedict’s Law was about better knowledge, better understanding, better decisions : and ultimately, safer children.
Read the full statement in the image and consider whether your school’s training truly meets that purpose.
If you’re reviewing your school’s allergy training, connect with your local Skillbase First Aid approved trainer: https://www.skillbasefirstaid.com/schools/1-hour-allergy-awareness-and-emergency-response-training-for-schools/
For Swindon and surrounding areas contact us for details of our allergy awareness course.
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