Anaphylaxis UK: Let's Talk About Allergies

This episode was recorded prior to Anaphylaxis UK's merger with Allergy UK. Please be aware that we are now one charity under the name Allergy UK incorporating Anaphylaxis UK.

People with Systemic Mastocytosis (SM) have an increased risk of developing serious and life-threatening allergic reactions, which are often unpredictable. The prevalence of SM is low – approximately 1-2 people per 10,000 population – which means clinicians may not be familiar with it and may not consider it in cases of anaphylaxis, nor recognise the different presentation and importance of timely treatment of anaphylaxis in people with SM.

This podcas...

Living with allergies goes far beyond the physical symptoms. The unseen burden - constant hyper-vigilance, endless label checks, second-guessing social situations, and the strain placed on families - can feel overwhelming.

For Anaphylaxis Awareness Week, we are moving beyond the theory to focus on actionable, evidence-based tools. Clinical Psychologist James Dayer and Health Psychologist Chrissie Jones from the University of Surrey, part of our Knowledge Transfer Partnership project, join us to share practical strategies for calming allergy anxiety and building day-to-day confidence for you and your loved ones.

More resources:

For our previous...

From student flat kitchen politics to backpacking in South East Asia - living with serious allergies isn't just about reading food labels, it's about the mental load and preparation that comes with it.

For Anaphylaxis Awareness Week 2026, we’re shining a spotlight on what true inclusivity looks like. Living with serious allergies shouldn’t put invisible barriers in the way of university life, travel, dating, or starting a career.

In this episode, our Information Officer Emilia speaks with two young guests, Jamie & Alexei, to share their best tips on self-advocacy, handling friendships, and how mates can...

Join Dr Adrian Sie, a leading consultant in paediatrics and allergy specialist, and Tracey Dunn, Education and AllergyWise manager, as they discuss the often misunderstood topic of nut-free schools.

They’ll look at the common misconceptions made about nut-free environments and what the evidence tells us when it comes to making children safer in school. Both Adrian and Tracey share their expert perspectives on the pros and cons of nut-free environments. Whether you're a parent, teacher, or simply curious about the topic, this video offers valuable insights and information on one of the hottest debates in the al...

On 20 April 2026, the UK’s first-ever National Allergy Strategy was launched — a landmark moment for millions of people living with allergic disease.

Developed by the National Allergy Strategy Group, which brings together clinicians, patients, charities including Anaphylaxis UK and advocacy organisations across all four nations, the Strategy sets out a clear plan to improve allergy prevention, diagnosis, treatment and support across the UK. Its ambition is to reduce preventable harm, improve access to specialist care, tackle inequalities, and ensure allergy is recognised as the serious long-term health condition it is.

But now the Strategy has been...

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...

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 pe...

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 he...

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 all...

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 protoc...

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...

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 navig...

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 impor...

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 reduc...

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...

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 d...

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 k...

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 en...

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 vi...

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, an...

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...

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 help...

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 al...

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...

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...

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...

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...