EVC Magazine Autumn 2025_digital - Flipbook - Page 30
Managing allergies
ARE YOU
ALLERGY-CONFIDENT?
If you are concerned about managing food allergies on an educational
visit, having a clear strategy can make all the difference. We asked
The Allergy Team’s Katharine Carpenter for some advice and guidance
When you’re managing
medical conditions like food
allergies on a school visit,
careful planning and risk
assessment is essential, which
includes having a strategy
for the visit itself; it is vital
to assess risks as you go and
remain vigilant throughout
each day. This five-point
checklist will help you to
reduce the risks and deal
confidently with any issues
that arise.
ALLERGY CHECKLIST
1
On the move
Food residue on public transport is a risk because a pupil with an allergy
might touch the seat and then their mouth. Before your student with
allergies sits down, do a quick check for food debris and wipe down
seats and tables.
2
Managing adrenaline
Adrenaline deteriorates at extreme temperatures, so consider how you or
your students are carrying adrenaline pens. An insulated bag to store them
in can be very helpful. If it’s very cold, you could wrap the medical pack in an
extra jumper or keep it next to you to absorb body temperature. If it’s very
hot, keep the bag in the shade as much as possible. Extreme temperatures
can also impact allergies, making symptoms more severe, so be vigilant.
3
Catering check
As well as checking the food provision at your venue
in advance, always double-check on the day that
there haven’t been any changes to the menu and
that students with allergies are receiving a safe meal.
If something feels ‘off’, trust your gut and find an
alternative option.
DID YOU
KNOW?
1 in 5
About 20% of anaphylaxis
reactions in schools happen
in children without a
history or diagnosis
of food allergy1
NEW Designated Allergy Lead Training
Operational leadership for whole-school
allergy safety, both on site and when
you’re out and about.
Visit →theallergyteam.com/dal_training
Muraro, A. et al. (2010). ‘The management of the allergic child at school: EAACI/GA2LEN Task Force on the allergic child at
school.’ Allergy, 65(6): 681–9. doi: 10.1111/j.1398-9995.2010.02343
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