PGL’s Windmill Hill residential activity centre has achieved Food Allergy Aware Gold Certification, recognising its approach to food allergen management and commitment to providing safe, inclusive catering for guests with food allergies, coeliac disease and other special dietary requirements.
The independent audit assessed every aspect of allergen management across the customer journey, including policies, staff competency, supplier management, food storage, preparation, service, communication with schools and parents, and practical controls to minimise allergen cross-contact.
The audit concluded that, “The operating procedures and practical measures regarding allergen management at this site were outstanding.”
No recommendations for improvement were identified, with the auditor noting that the centre was already addressing all key areas of allergen management and going above and beyond to support children with special dietary requirements.
Residential settings present unique challenges for allergen management, requiring close collaboration between catering teams, operational staff, schools, parents, and group leaders. Windmill Hill demonstrated a well-embedded food safety culture supported by comprehensive Standard Operating Procedures, structured staff training, robust communication processes, and clearly defined responsibilities throughout the organisation.
Key areas recognised during the audit included:
- 100% completion of food allergen training for relevant staff.
- Comprehensive allergen management policies and procedures.
- Dedicated allergen preparation facilities and equipment.
- Excellent communication with parents, schools, and group leaders before arrival.
- Robust supplier approval and ingredient control systems.
- Clear meal identification and supervised service procedures.
- Strong leadership and continuous monitoring of standards.
Tracey McCormick, General Manager at PGL Windmill Hill, said:
“We are delighted to receive Food Allergy Aware Gold Certification. The safety of our guests is not just a priority, it’s the foundation of everything we do across our centres. This recognition reflects the commitment of our Catering and centre teams to deliver exceptional and inclusive experiences where every young person can be confident in our allergy-safe protocols and take part in adventure safely.”
Caroline Benjamin, Founder of Food Allergy Aware, commented:
“The Food Allergy Aware Gold Certification recognises organisations that consistently demonstrate excellence in allergen management and customer care. Windmill Hill has shown that, through effective planning, staff training and a strong food safety culture, residential centres can successfully support guests with complex dietary requirements while delivering an enjoyable dining experience for every child.”
PGL continues to work closely with schools, parents and group leaders to understand individual dietary requirements before each visit, ensuring children with food allergies, coeliac disease and other medical dietary needs are supported throughout their stay.
The Food Allergy Aware Certification Scheme provides independent recognition for organisations that demonstrate best practice in allergen management, helping to build confidence for customers, parents, schools and visitors who rely on accurate allergen information and safe catering procedures.
PGL and Food Allergy Aware look forward to continuing their partnership as the certification programme is rolled out across additional PGL centres, further strengthening allergen management standards across the organisation.
For information on the pilot scheme, visit Food Allergy Aware.
