New government guidance designed to strengthen protections for children with allergies in schools is a welcome step forward. But awareness and understanding around allergies still need to improve.
Food allergies affect millions of people across the UK. For many families, school can be one of the most worrying environments to navigate safely.
Food allergies are affecting more families
According to the Food Standards Agency, around two million people in the UK live with a diagnosed food allergy. This includes approximately one in every thirteen children.
That means many schools are already supporting pupils with allergies. As diagnoses increase, staff need the knowledge and confidence to manage them safely.
The new guidance aims to help teachers and school staff recognise allergic reactions and respond quickly if they occur. Clear procedures and training can help schools protect pupils and reduce risk.
A welcome step for the allergy community
Speaking on BBC Radio Leicester this week, Leicestershire tech founder Sophia Turner welcomed the announcement.
“It has been a long time coming, but it is really welcome news within the allergy community. Allergy awareness and management in schools is incredibly important, and these changes will help people better understand how to support children safely.”
Sophia is the founder of Safe Appetite ( SAPHE ), a technology platform designed to help people manage food allergies more confidently when buying food or eating out.
A personal journey that inspired an idea
Sophia’s interest in allergy safety is personal. She experienced allergic reactions as a child but was not formally diagnosed until her mid twenties.
The experience later inspired her to develop Safe Appetite ( SAPHE ). The platform aims to help people identify allergens and make safer food choices.
She says living with allergies can be frightening.
“Unless you have lived with allergies, people often do not realise how frightening it can be. Every day you could be exposed to something that could make you seriously ill, and in extreme cases, it can be life-threatening.”
Why awareness still matters
While policy changes are important, public understanding of allergies still needs to improve.
One common misunderstanding relates to how allergens behave.
“Allergens are not bacteria. People often think wiping surfaces with antibacterial products removes the risk, but that can actually spread allergens rather than remove them. Awareness and proper management are essential.”
Simple misunderstandings like this can increase risk if people are not properly informed.
Education is just as important as policy
As allergy diagnoses continue to rise, education will play a key role in helping people stay safe.
“Allergies are on the increase, and they are not going away anytime soon. As a society, we need to be proactive about protecting people and making sure environments like schools are safe for everyone.”
Technology is also beginning to support people living with allergies. Platforms like Safe Appetite ( SAPHE ) aim to help users identify allergens and find safer alternatives.
For families managing allergies, stronger guidance in schools is an important step forward. But continued awareness and education will remain essential.
More information about Safe Appetite ( SAPHE ) can be found at
www.safeappetite.com
