Leicester family help lead Allergy awareness Week campaign

Millions of people across the UK are living with allergy symptoms without a diagnosis, as Allergy UK launches Allergy Awareness Week 2026 with a clear message: Diagnosis matters. 
As part of its “I Wish I Knew” campaign, the charity is calling on the public to recognise the possible signs and symptoms of allergic disease sooner and seek the support they need, highlighting how earlier diagnosis can significantly improve quality of life and reduce health risks. 
Allergy affects a substantial proportion of the population but remains widely misunderstood and under-recognised.
For some people, the consequences can be serious. Hospital admissions for anaphylaxis have risen significantly over recent decades and allergic conditions such as asthma, eczema and allergic rhinitis are closely linked. Around 25% of UK children have eczema, and these children are more than twice as likely to develop asthma and hay fever – and almost five times more likely to develop food allergy. 
Despite the scale of the issue, access to specialist care remains limited. Fewer than 10% of children with food allergy are seen in a specialist allergy clinic, leaving many families navigating symptoms, referrals and uncertainty on their own. 
Through its “I Wish I Knew” campaign, Allergy UK is sharing real stories from people who experienced years of unexplained symptoms, repeated GP visits, complicated and  / or and delayed diagnosis. Their experiences reflect a wider issue – that allergy is often overlooked, delaying access to appropriate care and support. 
Amena Warner, Head of Clinical Services, Allergy UK, says: “Far too many people are living with symptoms of allergy without understanding what is causing them. Recognising the signs and seeking a diagnosis is the first step towards getting the right care and staying safe. 
“We hear time and again from people who say, ‘I wish I knew sooner’. This campaign is about making sure more people have that knowledge earlier – so they can take control of their health. 
“For some communities, barriers to diagnosis are even greater. Inequalities in access to healthcare, limited awareness of allergy symptoms and long waits for specialist services mean that many people face delays in getting the help they need. 
“When allergy is recognised earlier and supported properly, it can transform lives.” 
During Allergy Awareness Week, Allergy UK will highlight: 
The common signs and symptoms of allergic disease  
The importance of seeking a diagnosis  
Real-life experiences of people living with allergy  
The support available through its Self-Help Hub. 
For the Tanna family from Hinkley in Leicestershire, managing eight-year-old Shyla’s complex allergies is a daily challenge. 
Two years ago, Shyla began to suffer frequent bouts of illness, her skin was very dry and she became withdrawn. 
Mum Deena says: “Our lives changed and we began searching for help and support. Even getting a basic food plan was difficult. We couldn’t find anyone to support us or give us advice. “
After struggling to get a GP appointment the family paid for private support. Shyla was found to have allergies to nuts , tree and grass pollen, mould and pet dander, with17 allergens in total, some of which  are airborne.  She also has allergic eczema.  
 Within a few months, Shyla had an anaphylactic reaction and was taken to A&E. They later received a follow-up call from a paediatric allergy consultant and then joined his clinic which has been a great help to them.  
 Deena says: “Allergies have changed our whole life. As well as the physical effects of allergies, there is the mental toll as well. As parents, we were really struggling to get information but at the same time trying not to worry Shyla or her older brother Bayln when we couldn’t find answers.” 
 The campaign also coincides with a major milestone for the allergy community – the launch of the UK’s first National Allergy Strategy (1) at a parliamentary reception (on April 20) hosted by Allergy UK. The strategy sets out a long-term vision to improve allergy care, awareness and quality of life across the UK. 
A key focus of this work is improving understanding of allergy in everyday environments – from schools and workplaces to public spaces – helping to create safer and more inclusive communities. 
Allergy UK continues to play a vital role in supporting those affected, providing trusted information, practical advice and guidance. Through its Self-Help Hub, people can access clear information about symptoms, diagnosis and managing allergic conditions safely. 
https://www.allergyuk.org/allergy-awareness-weeks/
Allergy Awareness Week 2026 aims to start a national conversation about allergy – helping more people recognise the signs, access support sooner and better manage their condition.