Helen Blythe Campaigns for Northern Ireland Schools to Adopt Benedict's Law on Allergy Protections
Helen Blythe, a campaigner for enhanced allergy protections in schools, is pushing for Northern Ireland to adopt new legislation, following the tragic death of her five-year-old son, Benedict. Benedict died in December 2021 after accidental exposure to cow's milk protein at a school in England. Ms Blythe's advocacy led to the implementation of ‘Benedict’s Law’ in English schools, which mandates compulsory teacher training and dedicated allergy policies.
Ministerial Engagement Questioned
Ms Blythe, alongside other affected families, was scheduled to meet Northern Ireland Education Minister Paul Givan. However, the meeting was initially postponed, with Ms Blythe stating she was informed the minister was “too busy”. She criticised the “lack of regard” shown to families travelling for the meeting. The Department of Education clarified that Assembly business delayed the minister, but confirmed he later met with parents and representatives from the National Allergy Strategy Group after proceedings concluded.
Current Northern Ireland School Allergy Measures
Northern Ireland schools currently operate under guidance rather than specific legislation for allergy safety, leading to inconsistencies in measures across institutions. Families highlight this variability as a source of significant anxiety. The Department of Education stated that schools are advised to develop and review policies for pupils with medical needs, including Individual Healthcare Plans (IHPs) for severe allergies, and that the Education Authority’s catering service implements allergen screening and staff training.
Ms Blythe's son’s inquest found his English school failed to follow all preventative measures, citing contamination risks and delays in administering an adrenaline pen. ‘Benedict’s Law’ aims to prevent similar tragedies by making it compulsory for schools to stock spare adrenaline auto-injectors and ensure staff are trained in their use and in responding to anaphylaxis.
Parents like Stephanie Kerr, whose four-year-old son Caolán has multiple severe allergies, articulated profound anxiety regarding staff knowledge and emergency medication protocols in schools. Lesley Burnside, mother to a 15-year-old with severe allergies, noted that the pressure persists through a child’s schooling, with awareness often not guaranteed across staff and the seriousness of allergies frequently underestimated.
Carolyn Benson recounted a distressing incident where her daughter, Hannah, with severe allergies, was nearly served contaminated food at a school open day. She stressed that a uniform policy, like Benedict’s Law, would significantly enhance safety by ensuring all staff are trained to recognise and manage anaphylaxis.
Ms Blythe stated that while ‘Benedict’s Law’ has garnered cross-party support from MLAs and the education committee, the ultimate decision rests with Minister Givan to implement these critical safety measures for Northern Ireland’s children.
