Sarah Knight

Sarah Knight is the founder of The Allergy Team, a company developing an AI-powered platform to help schools protect children with allergies. After a career as a BBC producer, her path changed when her son was diagnosed with severe food allergies.

Food allergies affect one to two children in every classroom, making them one of the most widespread chronic conditions among children. The Allergy Team’s Schools Allergy Code, published on the Department for Education’s website, provides crucial guidance for schools in managing this challenge.

“The Allergy Team supports families living with allergies to thrive by improving safety and inclusion in schools, businesses and everyday life,” says Sarah.

Her achievements include winning an Innovate UK Inclusive Innovation Award and UnLtd award, while developing the Schools Allergy Register to assess and recognise schools adhering to best practice. Through the Women in Innovation programme, she plans to develop an AI platform that will streamline allergy management, from staff training to policy documents, making it more accessible and affordable for schools.

“I am delighted, both professionally and personally,” says Sarah of winning the Women in Innovation Award. “As the parent of two sons with serious food allergies, this recognition validates that personal challenges can spark innovations that help thousands of others.”

“The biggest barrier is juggling motherhood and innovation,” reflects Sarah. “Taking a pay cut to start The Allergy Team while sustaining the family financially and juggling an enormous workload with caring responsibilities continues to be a struggle, but female co-founders and mentors make it possible.”

Her advice to aspiring innovators? “Really believe in yourself. When my sons were diagnosed with serious food allergies, I saw how families and schools struggled and I wasn’t happy to accept this. If you spot a problem and you think you can make an impact, take the leap.”

For more information on Women in Innovation

Find out more about the Women in Innovation Award and other support available across the Innovate UK ecosystem on the Women in Innovation programme page.