Allergy Survey of Schools

During October-November 2012, Allergy Choices partnered with the Victorian School Canteen Association (VSCA) to undertake an Allergy Survey of Schools in Victoria.

We know that dealing with allergies can be a serious issue for schools. We are keen to understand how allergies impact on schools, and the different approaches that schools have to managing these issues. We are also keen to understand what types of assistance would make the greatest difference to schools in managing allergy issues well. This will help us to develop products and resources that are of greatest benefit to schools.

Who did we survey?

We developed two separate versions of the survey:

  • One version for food handlers in schools (for example, canteen staff or food service staff, Out of School Hours Care staff, or food technology teachers)
  • The other version for school administration (specifically for people responsible for overseeing allergy-related policy in schools).

In this initial round of surveys, we invited responses from VSCA member schools. We received over 150 responses. In future we intend to survey a wider sample of Victorian schools.

Survey ethics

It's important to note that:

  • Participation in the survey was completely voluntary - schools were free to opt in or out, and no disadvantage occurred if schools chose not to participate.
  • Responses to the survey are strictly confidential. Any reports prepared from the survey will include general themes and statistics, but will not include information that could identify any individual or school.
  • Survey participants were given the choice whether to provide their personal contact details. Personal information is held confidentially by Allergy Choices and VSCA and will not be shared with any other person or organisation.
  • Schools did not receive any payment or reimbursement for participating in the survey. However, food handlers who completed the survey and provided their name and contact details were entered in the draw to win one of five double movie passes.

Report

The report of the survey findings is currently in preparation. When complete, a summary of the report will be made available on this website.

Further information

If you would like any further information about the survey, please contact:

Prue Cerin
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