05/05/2026

RLSS UK is helping schools across England prepare for major changes to allergy safety requirements set to become law in autumn 2026.

From September, all schools in England will be legally required to hold spare adrenaline auto-injectors for emergency use, ensure all staff receive allergy awareness training, and implement comprehensive policies to support pupils with medical conditions and allergies.

Known as Benedict’s Law, the new statutory requirements follow a government consultation on strengthened guidance to support children and young people with medical conditions and allergies in schools. It is named in memory of five-year-old Benedict Blythe, who died after an allergic reaction at school, and follows years of campaigning by his mother, Helen Blythe, and other families calling for stronger protections.

Over 5,000 RLSS UK Trainer Assessors (TAs) currently work in communities nationwide, many already supporting schools through swimming, water safety education and first aid training. RLSS UK is supporting its Trainer Assessors in upskilling to deliver Anaphylaxis Management training for schools and within their communities.

Eligible RLSS UK Trainer Assessors who are qualified as National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) or First Aid Trainer Assessors, and who hold current RLSS UK membership, can now access a free online learning module to become Anaphylaxis Trainer Assessors. The course covers the recognition and treatment of anaphylaxis, including the safe use of adrenaline auto-injectors. After completing the module and assessment, candidates will be awarded the RLSS UK Anaphylaxis Management Trainer Assessor qualification.

The initiative is designed to ensure trainers can confidently deliver regulated Anaphylaxis Management training in schools, helping staff respond effectively in life-threatening emergencies.

To support the rollout, RLSS UK has made the Anaphylaxis bolt-on free for selected qualifications and awards until 30 September 2026 and reduced the cost of standalone candidate packs during the same period. Trainer Assessors will also be able to deliver training to local businesses and the wider public through RLSS UK Approved Training Centres and Providers (ATC/Ps), allowing this essential training and qualification to be added to pool lifeguard qualifications, first aid qualifications, or delivered as a standalone course.

Nick Grazier, Deputy Director of Commercial Services, RLSS UK, says:
“Our Trainer Assessors are ideally placed to help schools prepare for Benedict’s Law. By upskilling, RLSS UK Trainer Assessors can play a vital role in helping schools meet these new standards and ensure safer environments for children with allergies.”

Anaphylaxis Management course