CIEH Outstanding Team Award 2026: Partnership working at its best to address growing risks around food allergies

A pioneering partnership dedicated to improving food allergy safety across the North East has been recognised after winning Outstanding Team Award at the CIEH Excellence Awards 2026.

The North East Regional Food Allergy Group, which brings together representatives from 12 Local Authorities across the region, received the award in recognition of its collaborative work to tackle food allergy risks, improve public safety and strengthen support for both businesses and consumers.

Chair Brian Whelan, from Darlington Council, said the award was a proud moment for everyone involved.

"We're incredibly proud and humbled to receive this recognition.,” Brian said. “What makes it especially rewarding is that this award reflects a collective effort of 12 Local Authorities from across the region and reinforces the importance of the work we're doing."

Responding to a growing need

The project was established to address the increasing risks posed by food allergies and the need for a more coordinated approach to protecting consumers.

Bringing together Environmental Health and Trading Standards professionals, alongside partners including NHS professionals, Directors of Public Health and food retailers, the group has developed a coordinated and preventative approach to food allergy safety.

Through intelligence sharing, joint enforcement activity and consistent public messaging, the partnership has transformed how food allergy risks are identified and managed across the region.

"The project was developed in response to a clear and growing need to address risks from food allergies affecting consumers,” Brian explained. “Our aim was to create a more joined-up model of working by bringing together key partners to identify risks early, improve on education, and support better outcomes.

"Ultimately, the goal was to protect the public, improve safety, and deliver a more efficient and impactful service."

Delivering measurable results

Since its launch, the group has delivered a range of innovative and cost-effective initiatives, including practical guidance, training resources and educational videos for food businesses.

The group's targeted regional sampling programme has produced measurable results, with food allergen failures falling from 33.6% in 2023/24 to 17.2% in 2024/25.

Brian added: "One of the main outcomes has been a single point of contact webpage that we have produced which allows the public to alert us to an allergy incident which is then passed on to the relevant Local Authority. This website has generated an interest from the Food Standards Agency (FSA) who may wish to replicate it on a national basis."

The power of partnership working

A key factor behind the group's success has been its commitment to collaboration, with partners across the region working together to share expertise, resources and intelligence.

Brian highlighted the importance of a collective approach in delivering results and driving innovation.

"Teamwork and partnership working have been absolutely critical,” he said. “This project simply wouldn't have achieved what it has without strong relationships and a shared commitment across each Local Authority.

"Each partner brings unique expertise, insight, and resources, and by working together we've been able to take a more holistic approach to tackling issues."

National recognition for regional impact

The CIEH Excellence Award recognises not only the achievements of the North East Regional Food Allergy Group, but also the value of collaborative working in tackling complex public health challenges.

The project continues to help protect consumers, improve food safety standards and support businesses across the region, demonstrating the impact that can be achieved when organisations work together towards a shared goal.