Last updated: April 2026

Review date: April 2027

Introduction

An allergy is a reaction of the body’s immune system to substances that are usually harmless. The reaction can cause minor symptoms such as itching, sneezing or rashes but sometimes causes a much more severe reaction called anaphylaxis.

Anaphylaxis is a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction. The whole body is affected often within minutes of exposure to the allergen, but sometimes it can be hours later. Causes can include foods, insect stings, and drugs. Most healthcare professionals consider an allergic reaction to be anaphylaxis when it involves difficulty breathing or affects the heart rhythm or blood pressure. Anaphylaxis symptoms are often referred to as the ABC symptoms (Airway, Breathing, Circulation).

It is possible to be allergic to anything which contains a protein, however most people will react to a fairly small group of potent allergens. Common UK Allergens include (but are not limited to): Peanuts, Tree Nuts, Sesame, Milk, Egg, Fish, Latex, Insect venom, Pollen and Animal Dander.

This policy sets out how Paint Pots ****will support children with allergies, to ensure they are safe and are not disadvantaged in any way.

Role and responsibilities

Parent Responsibilities

• It is the parent’s responsibility to inform the setting Manager of any allergies. This information should include all previous serious allergic reactions, history of anaphylaxis and details of all prescribed medication.
• Parents are to supply a copy of their child’s Allergy Action Plan. If they do not currently have an Allergy Action Plan this should be developed as soon as possible in collaboration with a healthcare professional e.g. GP/allergy
• Parents are responsible for ensuring any required medication is supplied, in date and replaced as necessary. (nb: Any child with medication that is out of date or forgets to bring to nursery will not be permitted to stay until it is replaced or brought in with the child.)
• Parents are requested to keep the provider up to date with any changes in allergy management. The Allergy Action Plan will be kept updated accordingly.

Staff Responsibilities

• Providers must ensure that all staff are aware of the symptoms and treatments for allergies and anaphylaxis, the differences between allergies and intolerances and that children can develop allergies at any time, especially during the introduction of solid foods. Training is provided for all staff ****on allergen awareness as part of the induction program and updated throughout their employment.
• Children must always be within sight and hearing of a member of staff whilst eating. Where possible, staff should sit facing children whilst they eat so they can prevent food sharing and be aware of any unexpected allergic reactions.
• Any staff member sitting with children whilst they eat must have a current, in date first aid certificate.
• Before a child is admitted to the setting the Manager must obtain information about any food allergies that the child has. This information must be shared by the Manager with all staff, particularly those involved in the preparation and handling of food.
• At each mealtime and snack time the staff with the children are responsible for checking that the food being provided meets all the requirements for each child.
• Staff (including bank staff and agency cover) must be aware of the children in their care who have known allergies as an allergic reaction could occur at any time and not just at mealtimes. Any food-related activities must be supervised with considerable caution.