What consideration has the Welsh Government given to adopting measures similar to what is known as "Benedict's Law" in England in order to ensure statutory and consistent arrangements to protect pupils with allergies in schools?
The Welsh Government has plans to strengthen the current guidance on supporting learners with healthcare needs. This will support joint working between health and education services.
All schools in Wales are currently subject to the statutory guidance – the Supporting Learners with Healthcare Needs guidance. It helps support local authorities and governing bodies of maintained schools in meeting their duty in relation to pupil welfare under section 175 of the Education Act 2002. It also provides information regarding the safe management and administration of medicines and highlights the need to consider dietary requirements where food is provided by or through a school, including for learners with medical conditions such as allergies.
Supplementary guidance also provides additional advice and information for teachers, managers, practitioners and all staff working in education settings on administering emergency adrenaline auto‑injectors.
The recent amendment made to the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill in England to introduce “Benedict’s Law” will be considered, and we will be following the outcome of the UK Government’s consultation on their new statutory guidance.