Explore every episode of the podcast Anaphylaxis UK: Let's Talk About Allergies
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Venom Allergy Testing & Immunotherapy: Your Questions Answered | 20 Sep 2024 | 00:37:12 | |
In this second episode of our Bee & Wasp Venom Campaign Series, we welcome back venom allergy specialist, Dr. Andrew Whyte to address some of the questions that have emerged since last year's interview. Our CEO, Simon, and Information Officer, Mary, talk to Dr. Whyte about insect stings, the right time to have venom allergy testing, and the process of venom immunotherapy. We also explore common concerns patients may have before undergoing testing or treatment, including potential side effects and what to expect throughout the journey. Dr. Andrew Whyte, a specialist at the Department of Allergy and Immunology at Derriford Hospital, provides care to patients with immunodeficiency and allergies across the South West Peninsula. Along with his colleagues at the Eden Unit, Dr. Whyte oversees UKAS-accredited immunology laboratories at Derriford Hospital and the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, offering expert advice and guidance to healthcare providers throughout the region. | |||
| Allergies to Bee & Wasp Stings - Our 2023 Bee & Wasp Venom Awareness Campaign | 27 Aug 2024 | 00:17:36 | |
In this episode we explore allergies to bee and wasp stings, covering symptoms, treatment, and prevention. Discover effective strategies for managing allergic reactions as our Chief Executive Simon Williams and expert Dr. Andrew Whyte discuss the importance of allergy testing, immunotherapy and emergency response. Dr. Andrew Whyte, a specialist at the Department of Allergy and Immunology at Derriford Hospital, provides care to patients with immunodeficiency and allergies across the South West Peninsula. Along with his colleagues at the Eden Unit, Dr. Whyte oversees UKAS-accredited immunology laboratories at Derriford Hospital and the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, offering expert advice and guidance to healthcare providers throughout the region. Please note that Emerade adrenaline auto-injectors are no longer available. All individuals with allergies should now carry either EpiPen or Jext auto-injectors at all times. | |||
| Understanding Allergies: Symptoms, Types, and Emergency Response | 01 Oct 2024 | 00:15:12 | |
In this episode of Let's Talk About Allergies by Anaphylaxis UK, we revisit insightful interviews with leading experts to break down the fundamentals of allergies, their symptoms, and what to do in an emergency. Hear from experienced healthcare professionals as they explain the differences between IgE and non-IgE allergies, common allergic triggers like food, pollen, and pets, and the potential risk of anaphylaxis. Learn crucial advice on managing allergic reactions, recognising symptoms in both adults and children, and what role medical intervention plays in severe cases. This is the first episode of Anaphylaxis Awareness Week, aiming to help listeners navigate the complexities of allergies and ensure they are well-prepared to respond in critical situations. Dr. Helen Evans-Howells, GP and allergy specialist, chairs the Anaphylaxis UK Clinical & Scientific Panel. She runs Dr Helen Allergy, a private clinic for adults and children in Bournemouth and Dorchester, offering virtual consultations and advice. Follow her for allergy and eczema support: drhelenallergy. Prof. Adam Fox, a renowned expert in paediatric allergy, has led Allergy services at Guy’s & St Thomas’ Hospitals and is a Professor at King’s College London. He chaired the UK Department of Health's National Care Pathway for Food Allergy in Childhood and is a Trustee & Immediate Past President of BSACI. Adam has received numerous awards for his contributions to allergy care. Follow him on Twitter @dradamfox. | |||
| Navigating Mental Health with Allergies: An Expert Discussion with Prof. Rebecca Knibb | 02 Oct 2024 | 00:24:00 | |
In this episode of Let's Talk About Allergies, we revisit our CEO Simon Williams’ conversation with Professor Rebecca Knibb, as they explore the significant psychological pressures individuals with allergies face and the progress made in recognising their mental health needs. They discuss the importance of accessible psychological support for those feeling anxious about their allergies. Prof. Knibb shares her journey into the field, discussing how psychological support for allergy sufferers has evolved over the years. She highlights the need for tailored mental health interventions, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), to help manage anxiety and fear related to allergies. Learn about resources, the significance of addressing mental health in primary and secondary care settings, and how individuals can access psychological support to improve their quality of life. This episode was recorded in 2023 so the studies Prof. Knibb discusses are no longer recruiting. You can learn more about the GAPs study led by Prof. Rebecca Knibb here: Allergy journal article - 2024. Rebecca Knibb is a Chartered Psychologist, practitioner Health Psychologist, and a Professor of Health Psychology at Aston University. Her research interests include the health related quality of life and mental well-being of children, adolescents and parents who are managing allergic conditions and asthma. She is also interested in development of strategies to help families cope through CBT based behaviour change methods and illness beliefs and lay perceptions of medically unexplained symptoms that patients associate with a reaction to food. Follow @rebeccaknibb81 | |||
| Understanding Allergy-Related Anxiety: An Expert Discussion with Prof. Chrissie Jones | 02 Oct 2024 | 00:22:12 | |
In this episode, our CEO Simon Williams and Prof. Chrissie Jones explore the mental health challenges faced by individuals after receiving a serious allergy diagnosis. Prof. Jones explains how different people respond to this life-altering news, from relief at having a plan to overwhelming anxiety about navigating daily life. They discuss the effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), mindfulness techniques, and other psychological interventions that can help manage allergy-related fears, particularly when avoiding social events and eating out due to safety concerns. Learn about practical tools and online resources for building confidence and improving quality of life, as well as how assertive communication can empower individuals in allergy-sensitive environments. Chrissie Jones is a Professor in Clinical Health Psychology and was awarded a PhD from the Brighton & Sussex Medical School evaluating the extent to which social cognition models could explain adherence to self-care behaviours in children and young people with food allergy. Prior to her PhD, Chrissie completed an MSc in Health Psychology and BA in Social Psychology both at the University of Sussex. Please see below the links mentioned in the podcast:
Follow @JonesChristinaJ | |||
| Managing Allergy-Related Anxiety: What Does the Research Say? | 07 Oct 2024 | 00:47:26 | |
In this episode of Let's Talk About Allergies, Anaphylaxis UK welcomes back Prof. Chrissie Jones to delve deeper into the mental health challenges faced by parents, adults, and children living with food allergies. Join us as we explore Prof. Jones’s recent research on two key psychological approaches: Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). We’ll discuss how these methods can effectively reduce anxiety, worry, and depression related to food allergies. This episode also highlights the potential benefits of group therapy settings, the importance of training non-psychologists, and strategies to expand access to these helpful resources. We’ll address the trauma associated with anaphylactic reactions, effective ways for parents to manage anxiety transfer to their children, and the unique challenges faced by those newly diagnosed with allergies. Tune in for an insightful conversation that aims to empower those navigating the complexities of allergies. Chrissie Jones is a Professor in Clinical Health Psychology and was awarded a PhD from the Brighton & Sussex Medical School evaluating the extent to which social cognition models could explain adherence to self-care behaviours in children and young people with food allergy. Prior to her PhD, Chrissie completed an MSc in Health Psychology and BA in Social Psychology both at the University of Sussex. Please see below the resources mentioned in the podcast: A review of freely available online support for food allergy related emotional well-being. This paper has links to helpful resources. Follow @JonesChristinaJ | |||
| Allergy-Friendly Festivities: Tips for Keeping Children with Allergies Safe at School This Christmas | 27 Nov 2024 | 00:32:36 | |
Discover how to navigate Christmas events at school when a child has allergies in this episode of Let's Talk About Allergies. The festive season is a time for celebration, but for families managing allergies, it can also mean navigating potential risks, advocating for inclusion, and ensuring safety. Join us as we chat with Tracey Dunn, Education and AllergyWise Manager at Anaphylaxis UK. With 16 years of experience as a headteacher in allergy-aware schools, and personal experience as a parent of teens with severe allergies, Tracey shares expert advice and practical strategies to help parents, teachers and children confidently enjoy Christmas celebrations at school. Discover actionable tips for advocating allergy safety, creating inclusive events, and making this holiday season a joyful experience for all. Don't miss this essential guide to allergy-friendly festivities! For more information on how to manage allergies at school, visit out Safer Schools Programme. The information and resources in this programme will support your school to develop best practice policies and procedures to ensure children with allergies are managed safely. This includes the importance of whole school allergy awareness, information about our AllergyWise® for Schools online training course with, best practice resources, such as a model policy for allergy management at school, a downloadable allergy awareness assembly presentation, information about spare pens in schools, responsibilities, allergy bullying, FAQs for schools, plus more! | |||
| The Truth About Allergies: Debunking Myths for a Safer Christmas | 18 Dec 2024 | 00:38:38 | |
In this episode of Let’s Talk About Allergies, Anaphylaxis UK welcome back Dr Helen Evan-Howells to tackle some of the most common misconceptions surrounding allergies. From well-meaning but misguided advice to outright myths, we separate fact from fiction to help listeners navigate allergy management during the holiday season. Join us as we explore the difference between mild and severe allergies, highlighting the symptoms associated with serious allergic reactions, and the importance of seeking professional advice from an allergy expert for tailored guidance. The goal is to equip listeners with the knowledge necessary to better understand allergies, anaphylaxis, and how to manage allergens effectively and safely, even during the challenges of the festive period. Dr. Helen Evans-Howells, GP and allergy specialist, chairs the Anaphylaxis UK Clinical & Scientific Panel. She runs Dr Helen Allergy, a private clinic for adults and children in Bournemouth, Dorchester, and now Belfast, offering consultations and advice. Follow her for allergy and eczema support: drhelenallergy. Dr Helen also runs a Facebook support group which you can visit for allergy advice and queries. Resources mentioned in this episode: Are At-home Allergy Tests Reliable – YouTube Video Unlocking the Truth About Home Allergy Tests: What Your GP Wants You to Know! How to Keep Your Kitchen Allergen-Safe This Christmas The Dos and Don’ts of Eating Out with an Allergy this Christmas Peanut Allergy & Tree Nut Allergy Factsheet | |||
| Preparing for Secondary School with Food Allergies | 11 Mar 2025 | 00:21:55 | |
Discover essential strategies for managing allergies as your child transitions to secondary school in this episode of Let's Talk About Allergies. The move from primary to secondary education brings new challenges for families dealing with allergies, but with proper preparation, you can ensure your child's safety and inclusion. Join us as we welcome back Tracey Dunn, Education and AllergyWise® Manager at Anaphylaxis UK. With her extensive experience as a former headteacher in allergy-aware schools and as a parent of teens with severe allergies, Tracey offers invaluable insights on navigating this crucial transition. Learn about the key differences in allergy management between primary and secondary schools, and ways to empower your child to take more responsibility for their allergy management. For more information on how to manage allergies at school, visit out Safer Schools Programme. The information and resources in this programme will support your school to develop best practice policies and procedures to ensure children with allergies are managed safely. This includes the importance of whole school allergy awareness, information about our AllergyWise® for Schools online training course with, best practice resources, such as a model policy for allergy management at school, a downloadable allergy awareness assembly presentation, information about spare pens in schools, responsibilities, allergy bullying, FAQs for schools, plus more! | |||
| Understanding Penicillin Allergies: What Every GP Should Know | 20 Feb 2025 | 00:09:02 | |
In this short episode, we revisit a conversation between our Chief Executive Simon and GP & Allergy Specialist Dr. Helen Evans Howells, as they delve into the complexities of penicillin allergies and the process of delabelling. Despite many patients believing they’re allergic to penicillin, research shows that only about 1% truly are. This mislabelling can lead to unnecessarily longer hospital stays and a heightened risk of complications, underscoring the importance of accurate diagnosis. Dr. Helen explains how GPs can better assess a reported penicillin allergy by exploring the severity and history of reactions. This approach not only helps ensure patients receive the most appropriate care but also minimises the potential complications associated with an incorrect allergy label. Dr. Helen Evans-Howells, GP and allergy specialist, chairs the Anaphylaxis UK Clinical & Scientific Panel. She runs Dr Helen Allergy, a private clinic for adults and children in Bournemouth and Dorchester, offering virtual consultations and advice. Follow her for allergy and eczema support: drhelenallergy. For the studies referenced in the episode, visit: Wilcock, M., & Powell, N. (2021). Challenges of delabelling penicillin allergy. Drug and Therapeutics Bulletin, 59(11). https://doi.org/10.1136/dtb.2021.000019 Ferner, R., & McGettigan, P. (2020). The patient who reports a drug allergy. The BMJ, 368. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.l6791 | |||
| Visiting your GP for Allergy Care | 07 Feb 2025 | 00:20:43 | |
In this episode, our CEO Simon Williams sits down with experienced GPs Dr. Lisa Brigstocke and Dr. Helen Evans Howells, to guide you through every step of your allergy appointment. From what you should bring and what tests to expect, to understanding the follow-up care and practical tips for making the most of your visit. Whether you’re new to managing allergies or have been on this journey for years, this conversation is designed to empower you with the knowledge and confidence to navigate your GP appointment successfully. Join us as we break down the process of visiting your GP for allergies, ensuring you’re fully prepared to take charge of your allergy care. Dr. Helen Evans-Howells, GP and allergy specialist, chairs the Anaphylaxis UK Clinical & Scientific Panel. She runs Dr Helen Allergy, a private clinic for adults and children in Bournemouth and Dorchester, offering virtual consultations and advice. Follow her for allergy and eczema support: drhelenallergy. Dr. Lisa Brigstocke has been practicing as a GP with an extended role in allergy since 2019, offering tailored care for patients with complex allergy-related conditions. Her postgraduate training has equipped her to integrate advanced knowledge of immunology into patient consultations, ensuring comprehensive and effective management of allergic disorders. She currently works at Frimley Park Hospital, where she combines her general practice expertise with a specialised focus on allergy care. Simon also highlights our video demonstration on how to use an adrenaline auto-injector with Dr. Matt Doyle. You can watch this helpful guide here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VYvSbH3dUtI | |||
| Anaphylaxis UK’s Next Step: Addressing the Emotional Impact of Allergies | 04 Apr 2025 | 00:29:00 | |
Living with serious allergies isn't just a physical challenge—it can take a significant emotional toll. In this episode of Let’s Talk About Allergies, we explore an innovative new initiative from Anaphylaxis UK aimed at tackling allergy-related anxiety. Funded by Innovate UK, through a Knowledge Transfer Partnership with the University of Surrey, this programme will develop resources and support services to help individuals manage the psychological impact of living with allergies. Joining us are Anaphylaxis UK’s Chief Executive Simon Williams, counselling psychologist Dr. Erin Alford, and allergy psychology expert Prof. Chrissie Jones. Together, they discuss why allergy anxiety is often overlooked, what practical strategies can help, and how this programme aims to provide long-term support for those affected. Tune in to learn how this initiative could transform allergy care and ensure that no one faces the hidden battle with allergies alone. | |||
| Infant Weaning & Allergies: How to Introduce Allergens Safely and Prevent Food Allergies | 16 May 2025 | 00:39:21 | |
In this episode of Let’s Talk About Allergies we celebrate #NationalWeaningWeek by guiding you through the exciting—and sometimes nerve‑wracking—journey of introducing solid foods to your baby. We're joined by paediatric specialist dietitian Karen Wright, senior research fellow at the University of Southampton, whose allergy expertise spans NHS practice and international research. Together we unravel the myths and jargon around weaning, guiding you with clear, evidence‑based advice on recognising when your little one is ready for solids and how to introduce common allergens—like peanuts, eggs, fish and dairy—safely and confidently. Karen explains why early, regular exposure to these foods is key to allergy prevention, how to spot an immediate‑type allergic reaction in an infant, and when to seek medical help. She also discusses the needs of babies at higher risk of developing allergies and shares practical tips for families already managing allergies at home. For further guidance, head to our website’s Infant Weaning Guide, where you can download a step‑by‑step resource and access the latest recommendations from the British Society of Allergy & Clinical Immunology. Let’s make those first bites joyful, confident and allergy‑aware. | |||
| Preventing Food Allergies in Children: Expert Advice on Early Steps, Skincare and Weaning | 17 Jun 2025 | 00:53:31 | |
In this episode we’re joined by Professor Helen Brough, a leading Paediatric Allergy and Immunology specialist at Evelina London Children’s Hospital, Professor at King’s College London, and founder of Children’s Allergy Doctors, a specialist private paediatric allergy clinic. Professor Brough shares her expertise on preventing allergies in children, drawing on her extensive clinical and research experience. We discuss why allergy prevention is such an urgent public health issue, how eczema and skincare play a crucial role, the importance of early and regular introduction of allergenic foods, and further practical steps parents can take to reduce their child’s risk of developing allergies. Whether you’re a parent, carer, or healthcare professional, this episode offers clear, evidence-based guidance and answers to the most common questions about allergy prevention in childhood. For the Allergy Prevention Guide discussed in the episode visit: Preventing Food Allergies in Babies: A Practical Guide for Parents For our podcast episode on allergies and infant weaning visit: Infant Weaning & Allergies: How to Introduce Allergens Safely and Prevent Food Allergies Other helpful resources: Children's Allergy Doctor: Allergy Insights The Do’s and Don’ts of Treating Children’s Eczema at Home BSACI: Preventing Food Allergy in Your Baby BSACI: Preventing Food Allergy in Higher Risk Infants: Guidance for Healthcare Professionals | |||
| How Schools Can Keep Children with Allergies Safe: Practical Tips for Staff | 04 Jul 2025 | 00:46:55 | |
In this episode of Let’s Talk About Allergies, we’re joined once again by Tracey Dunn, Education and AllergyWise® Manager at Anaphylaxis UK and leader of the Safer Schools Programme. With her extensive 15 year experience as a former headteacher in allergy-aware schools and as a parent of teens with serious allergies, Tracey shares practical advice for schools on how to keep children with serious allergies safe. We discuss how schools can start open conversations with parents, gather essential information, and create a culture of allergy awareness without singling out children with allergies. Tracey also covers the importance of regular staff training, emergency preparedness—including adrenaline access—and best practices for managing catering, classroom activities, and transitions between year groups. Whether you’re a teacher, school nurse, catering manager, or a parent, this episode is packed with actionable tips and resources to help your school develop confident, inclusive allergy management, so that all children are safe and feel included. For more information, visit our Safer Schools Programme and discover how AllergyWise training can support your whole school community. For the resources discussed in the episode visit: | |||
| Back-to-School Allergy Prep: Top Tips for Parents | 01 Aug 2025 | 00:29:37 | |
In this episode of Let’s Talk About Allergies, we welcome back Tracey Dunn, Education and AllergyWise® Manager at Anaphylaxis UK. With her extensive 15-year experience as a headteacher in allergy-aware schools and as a parent of teens with serious allergies, Tracey shares practical advice for parents whose children are getting ready to start or return to school in September. Tracey guides you step by step: from building a strong, proactive relationship with school staff to empowering your child’s independence while prioritising their safety. Discover how to avoid common pitfalls, help your child feel included, and navigate what to do if a school isn’t taking allergies seriously. We also discuss how to manage back-to-school nerves, both for children and parents. Whether your child is starting reception or moving up to secondary school, this episode is packed with practical tips, useful resources, and expert reassurance—everything you need to advocate confidently for your child’s health, happiness, and inclusion all year long. For more information, visit our Safer Schools Programme and discover how AllergyWise training can support the whole school community. For the resources discussed in the episode visit:
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| EURneffy® and Adrenaline for Anaphylaxis: Your Questions Answered | 12 Sep 2025 | 00:51:19 | |
In this episode we’re joined by Professor Adam Fox OBE, a leading Consultant Paediatric Allergist at Evelina London Children’s Hospital, Professor of Paediatric Allergy at King’s College London, and co-founder of London’s first and only specialist allergy hospital, Allergy Centre of Excellence. Professor Fox shares expert answers to some of the most common and urgent questions we hear through our helpline and social channels about adrenaline and anaphylaxis. We go right back to the fundamental basics of adrenaline and anaphylaxis — from how it works and when to use it, to why carrying two AAIs is so important, plus side effects and other practical concerns. We then turn to EURneffy®—what it is, how it compares with EpiPen and Jext, who may benefit, likely NHS access timelines, and practical issues such as switching or carrying devices, and real-world reports of effects. Whether you’re a parent, carer, healthcare professional or someone living with allergy, this episode gives clear, evidence-based answers and practical steps for staying safe and confident in an emergency. For the Allergy Action Plans discussed in the episode visit: BSACI Allergy Action Plans. For helpful updates and easy-to-digest information about children's allergies, why not follow Prof. Fox on Instagram: @DrAdamFox & @allergycentreofexcellence | |||
| Immunotherapy for Food Allergy: Your Questions Answered | 07 Oct 2025 | 01:00:09 | |
To celebrate #AnaphylaxisAwarenessWeek, in this episode we tackle one of the most asked-about developments in food allergy care: immunotherapy for food allergy. We’re joined by Dr Helen Evans-Howells — a GP with a specialist role in allergy, Chair of Anaphylaxis UK’s Clinical & Scientific Panel, lecturer at the University of Southampton, and founder of Dr Helen Allergy private clinics in Ringwood and Belfast. Dr Helen offers expert answers to common questions including: what oral immunotherapy (OIT) and sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) are, the science behind how they reduce allergic responses, who might be suitable, and how protocols actually run. We discuss real-world practicalities — NHS vs private access, likely timelines, cost considerations, monitoring and safety, and the latest research and trials aiming to make immunotherapy safer and more accessible. Whether you’re a parent, carer, healthcare professional or someone living with allergy, this episode offers clear, evidence-based information and practical steps to help you understand your options and have informed conversations with clinicians. | |||
| Childhood Food Allergy: Outgrowing, Challenging and Long-Term Tolerance | 26 Nov 2025 | 00:52:02 | |
In this episode we’re joined by Professor Adam Fox OBE, and Professor Rosan Meyer. Professor Fox is a leading Consultant Paediatric Allergist at Evelina London Children’s Hospital, Professor of Paediatric Allergy at King’s College London, and co-founder of London’s first specialist allergy hospital, the Allergy Centre of Excellence. Professor Meyer is a leading Specialist Paediatric Dietitian, Senior Lecturer in Paediatrics at Imperial College London, Professor at KU Leuven and Winchester University, and founder of SBS Kidz Nutrition. Together Prof. Fox and Prof. Meyer answer the questions families and clinicians frequently ask about outgrowing food allergies. We explore what “outgrowing” really means, how likely children are to become tolerant to different foods and how age and clinical history affect those odds. We walk through the clinical pathway — referrals, testing, follow-up frequency — and explain the specialist dietitian’s role in assessment and management. We also cover the risk of recurrence and the red flags that should prompt urgent review. Prof. Meyer also offers realistic, low-cost tips for keeping foods in the diet, handling ‘may contain’ labels, managing dislikes and preventing cross-contact at home. Whether you’re a parent, carer or healthcare professional, this episode gives clear, evidence-based guidance and practical steps to help families navigate childhood allergies. | |||
| Preparing for Secondary School with Food Allergies | 03 Mar 2026 | 00:21:32 | |
First aired 11 March 2025 This week, Year 6 pupils will be hearing the outcome of their chosen secondary school, and taking the next steps. Discover practical advice for managing allergies as your child makes the big move to secondary school in this episode of Let’s Talk About Allergies. Transitioning from primary to secondary education can feel daunting for families living with allergies, but with the right planning and support, your child can stay safe, confident, and fully included. We’re joined once again by Tracey Dunn, Education and AllergyWise® Manager at Anaphylaxis UK. Drawing on her experience as a former headteacher in allergy-aware schools — and as a parent of teenagers with severe allergies — Tracey shares expert insights to help families navigate this important milestone. In this episode, we explore the key differences between primary and secondary school allergy management, what parents should discuss with their child’s new school, and how to gradually encourage young people to take greater responsibility for managing their allergies with confidence. For more guidance, explore the Safer Schools Programme from Anaphylaxis UK. The programme provides schools with practical tools and resources to build best-practice allergy policies and procedures. This includes whole-school allergy awareness guidance, the AllergyWise® for Schools online training course, a model allergy policy, a downloadable allergy awareness assembly presentation, guidance on spare adrenaline pens, advice on roles and responsibilities, tackling allergy bullying, FAQs for schools, and much more. | |||
| The emotional impact of allergies and new UK support groups | 23 Apr 2026 | 00:40:50 | |
One year after launching our initiative to tackle allergy-related anxiety, funded by Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) with the University of Surrey, we reflect on the progress made and what comes next. Joining us in this Let’s talk about allergies episode are Dr James Dayer Clinical Psychologist and Professor Chrissie Jones of Clinical Health Psychology at University of Surrey, who will help us dive into the research underpinning this work, and share a glimpse on the next phase of the project: the development of accessible, evidence-based resources. Built from a CBT-informed workbook, these tools aim to support people experiencing allergy-related anxiety wherever they are in the UK. We’re also joined by Vanessa Millward Group Support Coordinator and Sam Phillips (East Yorkshire Support Group facilitator), as we explore the introduction of new peer support groups designed to provide safe, understanding spaces for people affected by allergies. We discuss why these groups are needed, how they are being developed, and the steps being taken to ensure group leaders feel confident, supported, and well-equipped. Find out more about Anaphylaxis UK support groups here: https://www.anaphylaxis.org.uk/living-with-serious-allergies/anaphylaxis-uk-support-groups/ | |||
| Weaning and Food Allergies: Common questions answered | 13 May 2026 | 00:25:05 | |
With National Weaning Week taking place from 13–17 May, we’re revisiting one of our most popular episodes from last year, packed with practical, evidence-based advice for parents. We’ve also pulled together some of the most common allergy-specific questions into this shorter version, making it even easier for families to find the information they need. We’re joined by paediatric specialist dietitian Karen Wright, Senior Research Fellow at the University of Southampton, whose expertise in allergy spans both NHS practice and international research. Karen explains why early, regular exposure to these foods is important for allergy prevention, how to spot signs of an immediate allergic reaction in infants, and when to seek medical help. She also discusses babies who may be at higher risk of developing allergies and offers practical tips for families already managing allergies at home. For further guidance, visit our website’s Infant Weaning Guide, where you can download a step-by-step resource and access the latest recommendations from the British Society for Allergy & Clinical Immunology: https://www.anaphylaxis.org.uk/living-with-serious-allergies/infant-weaning/ Episode highlights: 00:56 – What is the likelihood that my child will have an allergic reaction? 01:46 – What are the best foods to introduce first? 04:22 – How often and how much of an allergen should I give my child? 06:46 – What makes a child higher risk for allergies? 08:30 – If my child is at higher risk, when should I start weaning? 10:50 – If a parent has a food allergy, is my child at higher risk? 13:23 – How can we safely wean if there are allergies in the household? 16:32 – What if my child doesn’t like the allergen? 18:45 – What’s the difference between gagging and an allergic reaction, and what should I do if I suspect a reaction? 22:15 – Does redness around the mouth indicate a reaction? 23:20 – Karen’s top tips for parents | |||