King Charles has expressed his support for a newly launched allergy awareness initiative aimed at schools, created by the parents of Natasha Ednan-Laperouse.
Natasha, who hailed from Fulham in west London, tragically passed away in July 2016 at the age of 15 due to a severe allergic reaction to a Pret a Manger sandwich that contained sesame.
The £1 million “Allergy School” initiative, partly developed with the King’s Foundation charity, seeks to equip teachers and school staff with a deeper understanding of food allergies and how to effectively manage them.
The King conveyed his enthusiasm for the initiative, emphasizing the crucial need to protect children with food allergies.
In the wake of Natasha’s death, legislation was enacted to mandate that all food vendors provide complete ingredient lists and allergy labeling on food that is pre-packaged for direct sale.
Nonetheless, a recent study conducted by the NASUWT teachers’ union and the Natasha Allergy Research Foundation (NARF) indicated that many educators lack adequate knowledge about food allergies to address related challenges in schools.
The King remarked, “Enhancing awareness about this matter is vital for ensuring the safety of children with food allergies, allowing them to take part fully in school activities and the broader community.”
He expressed his satisfaction that his King’s Foundation has played a significant role in the initiative, promoting greater awareness of how we can support one another.
Tanya Ednan-Laperouse OBE, Natasha’s mother and founder of NARF, described the survey results as “alarming,” highlighting the obstacles faced by children with food allergies.
“Finding a nursery that could ensure Natasha’s safety was incredibly challenging. At times, she faced bullying at school due to her food allergies, which was immensely stressful and isolating for both her and our family.”
The initiative will also reach nurseries and clubs, in addition to schools. It will offer educational videos, first aid guidance, lesson plans, and assembly resources developed in cooperation with The King’s Foundation, St John Ambulance, Coram Life Education, and Tesco Stronger Starts.
Mrs. Ednan-Laperouse stated, “Collaboration among government, schools, teachers, parents, and students is essential to support children with food allergies across the country.”
“Today marks the beginning of that effort,” she added, stressing that the new program will “ensure every child can safely participate in school activities.”
Patrick Roach, the general secretary of NASUWT, affirmed the significance of the recent teacher survey. “It is crucial that children and school staff dealing with food allergies receive the necessary support to ensure their safety.”
Stephen Morgan, Minister for Early Years Education, praised the charity’s efforts, stating, “The safety of our children is paramount, both within and outside school settings.”
He encouraged all institutions to adopt engaging initiatives like these while taking appropriate measures to manage allergy risks as outlined in the government’s allergy guidance.
