Wraparound care and allergy management: Are you ready for September’s changes? 

From 1 September 2025, new requirements will come into force for wraparound care providers under the Early Years Statutory Framework (EYFS). While expectations for private, voluntary, and independent (PVI) providers – or where Reception children attend – are clearer, school-led wraparound care must also comply with the new safeguarding and safer eating regulations.  

Ofsted visits to breakfast and after-school clubs will become increasingly common and schools need to be sure that they are complying with the correct legislation. 

What’s changing? 

From September, provisions following the EYFS need to ensure: 

• That all staff can recognise the signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis and how to respond in an emergency. 

• That all staff know the difference between allergy and intolerance. 

• That there is clarity about the food being served to the child with an allergy and that the child receives the correct food. 

• Where possible staff should be facing children when eating and alert to any unexpected allergic reactions. 

• That information about a child’s allergy or intolerance is collected when the child is registered to the provision. 

• Ongoing discussions must take place with parents/carers of children with allergies or intolerances. 

In addition: 

• They should have a member of staff who is paediatric first aid-trained in the room whenever children are eating. 

It is important to note that while first aid training covers emergency response, it does not address the ongoing, preventative steps required to keep children safe. 

These requirements are part of the wider updates to the safer eating section of the EYFS. Read in full: EYFS Page 36, section 3.63 

How we can help

Allergy is the only medical condition that causes illness in an otherwise healthy person when exposed to their allergen.  The treatment for anaphylaxis is emergency intervention, so it’s vital that allergic reactions are prevented.  They can only be prevented through the active management of allergens in the environment with strong knowledge and understanding being demonstrated by the staff.   

Anaphylaxis UK have guidance and support for providers that helps them create environments that are safe and inclusive for children. Our resources include risk assessments, flow charts, check sheets and leading low cost Allergywise^® training tailored to Wraparound care providers. In addition to the course, there is a free downloadable guide that links all the relevant legislation to good practice.   

Providers who are interested in developing their practice further are recommended to contact our partner FDC Training & Consulting.  FDC Training & Consulting have been working closely with several Local Authorities and the Department for Education to develop their Wraparound care provision.  They can be contacted here: www.fdctrainingandconsultancy.org.

Allergy management is everyone’s responsibility. It’s not a tick-box exercise—it’s about creating safe, inclusive spaces where children can enjoy wraparound provision without worry. Let’s work together ensuring that the children have the best time, free of worry whilst they are at the provision.  Our Education and AllergyWise ^® manager can support with enquiries and face-to-face training. Get in touch at allergywise@anaphylaxis.org.uk.