Children Deliver Petition to Downing Street Demanding Allergy Safeguards in Schools – “Benedict’s Law”
London, UK – A group of children, including six-year-old Etta and her friends, personally delivered a petition with over 13,000 signatures to 10 Downing Street in December 2021, urging the government to implement comprehensive allergy protections in schools. The campaign, known as “Benedict’s Law,” is driven by the tragic death of Benedict Blythe, a young boy who suffered a fatal allergic reaction at school in Peterborough.
the petition calls for mandatory allergy policies in all schools, comprehensive allergy training for all staff, and the provision of readily available spare epinephrine auto-injectors (allergy pens) within every school. The push for these changes follows a recent inquest into Benedict’s death held at Peterborough Town Hall, which revealed critical failings in the school’s allergy management procedures. The jury concluded that the school did not consistently adhere to established protocols designed to prevent a fatal anaphylactic reaction, and identified risks related to potential cross-contamination and delays in administering life-saving medication.Benedict’s mother, Helen Blythe, 38, emphasized the importance of children leading the charge for change. “this is about their lives,” she stated. “It’s a proud moment to bring them here and let their voices be heard.” the campaign began nearly three years ago, fueled by the belief that stricter safeguards could have saved her son.
Benedict lived with asthma and multiple allergies, including eggs, nuts, kiwi, and milk.His parents collaborated with the school to create a detailed allergy action plan.The school was specifically tasked with preparing benedict’s oat milk in a controlled manner – storing it labelled in the staff refrigerator and pouring it into his cup in the classroom, directly handing it to him. However, the inquest revealed a crucial deviation from this protocol on the day of his death; his milk was poured in the staff room instead.
“The inquest findings showed that had the measures we’re advocating for been in place, benedict would almost certainly still be with us,” Mrs. Blythe explained. “That’s a significant turning point and a compelling reason for the government to act.”
Mrs. Blythe described her son as a radiant, curious, and exceptionally kind child.”Benedict always looked out for others, so it feels incredibly fitting to create legislation that protects other children. Keeping kids safe would be a beautiful legacy for him.”
The campaign has garnered widespread support, and Mrs. Blythe has connected with numerous families sharing similar experiences. While some schools demonstrate proactive and effective allergy management,she highlighted the inconsistency across the country. “There shouldn’t be a postcode lottery when it comes to children’s safety,” she asserted.
Recent meetings with the Department of Education have been encouraging, with Mrs. Blythe reporting a growing willingness to consider legislative changes. “We’re hopeful that measures will soon be in place to protect children with allergies nationwide,” she concluded.The families involved are optimistic that “Benedict’s Law” will soon become a reality, ensuring a safer learning environment for all children with allergies.
