Market Intelligence

The Children's Wellbeing and Schools Act 2026 has strengthened allergy safety requirements in educational settings, but questions remain about which contractors must receive mandatory training. This guidance examines the legal framework and provides practical criteria for determining when contractors working in schools need allergy awareness training, considering factors such as pupil contact, supervisory responsibilities, and the nature of their work.

UK universities continue to pursue overseas campus ventures and transnational education arrangements, partnering with private sector providers to deliver programmes abroad.

The U.K. Government has confirmed that new subscription contract regulations under the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024 will take effect on January 1, 2027, introducing comprehensive requirements for pre-contract information, reminder notices, and consumer cancellation rights. Draft regulations and guidance have been published, providing detailed compliance frameworks for businesses offering auto-renewing subscriptions, though several practical implementation questions remain unresolved.

The Crime and Policing Act 2026 removed the supervision exemption for DBS checks, raising questions about whether sixth-form pupils and prefects volunteering with younger students now require enhanced criminal record checks. This analysis examines the continuing applicability of the 'peer exemption' under the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006 and what schools must do to ensure compliance with safeguarding requirements while maintaining volunteer programmes.

The UK’s new consumer subscription regime is due to take effect on 1 January 2027. The Government has now published draft implementing regulations and detailed guidance explaining how the regime under the Digital Markets...

UK consumer law is undergoing significant changes, with new subscription contract rules accelerating to January 2027 and the CMA wielding enhanced enforcement powers under the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024. From drip pricing fines to reference pricing controversies, businesses face a rapidly evolving regulatory landscape that demands careful review of their entire customer journey.