Gareth Wilson welcomes public consultation on new school allergy guidance

Newry and Armagh MLA Gareth Wilson has welcomed confirmation from the Education Minister that a public consultation will be launched on new allergy guidance for schools, including consideration of training arrangements for school staff.

The commitment follows a series of Assembly Questions submitted by Mr Wilson seeking clarification on the support and training currently available to school staff in responding to serious allergic reactions and whether further measures could be introduced to improve preparedness.

Welcoming the announcement, the MLA said the consultation represents an important opportunity to strengthen allergy awareness and emergency response procedures within schools across Northern Ireland.

Mr Wilson said allergies remain a significant concern for many families and that parents should have confidence that schools are equipped to respond effectively should an emergency arise.

“I welcome the Minister’s commitment to bring forward a consultation on allergy guidance for schools and to consider how training arrangements can be strengthened,” he said.

“This follows a series of Assembly Questions I submitted seeking clarity on what support and training is currently available to school staff and whether more could be done to improve preparedness when dealing with serious allergic reactions.

“For many parents, allergies are a daily concern. When children leave for school each morning, parents need confidence that appropriate procedures are in place and that staff are equipped with the knowledge and training required to respond quickly and effectively in an emergency.”

The DUP representative said that while schools are already working hard to protect pupils, there is value in reviewing existing guidance and ensuring training opportunities are comprehensive, consistent and accessible for all staff.

He noted that serious allergic reactions can occur unexpectedly and stressed the importance of ensuring that teachers and other school personnel have the confidence and skills needed to act quickly when required.

Mr Wilson added that improving understanding of allergies and strengthening emergency preparedness would benefit not only pupils with allergies but also the wider school community.

“While schools work hard to keep pupils safe, there is a clear case for reviewing current practices and ensuring that training opportunities are as comprehensive and accessible as possible,” he said.

“Better awareness and preparedness can help protect pupils and staff, improve confidence across the school community and ultimately save lives.”

The MLA is encouraging parents, teachers, school leaders and healthcare professionals to take part in the consultation process once it is launched by the Department of Education.

“This consultation presents an important opportunity for parents, teachers, school leaders and healthcare professionals to have their say on how allergy management can be improved,” he said.

“I would encourage all those with an interest in this issue to engage with the process when it opens.”

Further details on the consultation, including how members of the public and organisations can contribute, are expected to be announced by the Department of Education in due course.