Kids' party allergy checklist

Before the party

• Ask about allergies and dietary needs on the invitation itself
• Tell your venue or caterer about every allergy in writing
• Check the ingredients of the cake, sweets and party bag treats
• Ask parents of children with serious allergies what they'd like you to do
• Ask whether the child carries medication and who will be responsible for it

On the day

• Keep ingredient labels and packaging until the party is over
• Serve allergy-safe food first, or separately, to avoid cross-contamination
• Make sure the adults helping know which children have allergies
• Keep a contact number for every child's parent

Party bags and cake

• Consider non-food party bag fillers
• Offer a safe alternative slice for any child who can't have the cake

A note on safety

This checklist is general guidance. Always follow the advice of the child's parent, and call emergency services if a child shows signs of a serious reaction.