A PLAN to protect highly-allergic children from dangers at school has been welcomed by an East Lancashire teacher whose sister died from an anaphylatic reaction.

The Anaphylaxis Campaign has successfully lobbied for all schools to be required by law to support pupils with allergies. As the announcement was made in Parliament, Oswaldtwistle teacher Domenico Sanna said it was great news for youngsters struggling with severe conditions.

The Rhyddings High School teacher lost his sister Francesca Sanna at their family home in 2007 when she collapsed after a very bad reaction.

Francesca, 19, known as Mim, was determined to live a normal life in spite of various severe food allergies. After her fatal reaction to an unknown allergen, her family, raised awareness of the condition’s unpredictable nature.

Now after months of work by the Anaphylaxis Campaign every school will have to ensure support for allergies is in place.

Domenico said: “It is reassuring to know this will be guaranteed by law. It is also important systems ensure children are not ostracised because of allergies that they have no control over.

“A wider awareness of anaphylaxis is needed in general as it’s far more serious than an upset stomach caused by a food intolerance.

“Many people don't know the difference between the two, which can have serious consequences for someone who has the condition.”

Mandy East, national co-ordinator at the Anaphylaxis Campaign, said: “This decision will bring real hope to many families of children who live with severe allergies and who are struggling to get the support they need.

“But this will need to be backed up with statutory guidance that shows schools what is needed to support children with health conditions.”