As part of a countrywide School of Sleep Roadshow, organised by Furniture Village in collaboration with The Sleep Charity, NHS doctor and TV personality Dr Ranj – the former's sleep and wellness ambassador – has been visiting pupils and parents to talk about the importance of a good night’s sleep.
Ranj has visited pupils and parents in Birmingham, Manchester and York so far, offering sleep health tips for the whole family, including simple steps that can be taken to establish a good bedtime routine.
Half (50%) of children and 40% of adults will have an issue with sleep at some point in their lifetime, whether that be getting to sleep or staying asleep through the night. Alongside this, studies have shown that if children struggle to sleep, their parents will too.
Ranj says: “As a doctor, I know that sleep is just as essential for health and wellbeing as a balanced diet and regular exercise. And while children learn about the importance of nutrition and movement, it struck me that they aren’t taught the importance of a good night’s sleep, which is why I joined forces with Furniture Village and The Sleep Charity to devise this programme.
“I was thrilled to be given the opportunity to speak to parents and children about a topic I’m so passionate about and hope that some of the sleep strategies and practical advice we are offering can make a tangible difference to the whole family’s wellbeing.”
The roadshow will also see Ranj visit schools in Berkshire and Bristol.
“Sleep is always a hot topic for parents," he continues. “Sleep can have a huge impact on a child’s concentration as well as their behaviour and mood, both at home and in the classroom, which is why we’ll be offering practical advice for both children and adults to improve their quality of sleep as well as signposting parents to the free resources available on the Sleep Charity’s website.”
Dr Ranj has worked closely with Furniture Village and The Sleep Charity on a number of key campaigns, including the introduction of the UK’s first National Sleep Helpline. Launched last September, the free service is operated by specialist trained advisors and aims to provide support and guidance for those struggling to sleep.
Lisa Artis, deputy CEO of The Sleep Charity, says: “It’s never too early to start talking about the value of a good night’s sleep, which is why we are delighted to be able facilitate the assemblies with Dr Ranj and Furniture Village. Working in partnership with families is at the heart of what we do, so being able to talk directly to parents and pupils is an invaluable opportunity to spread the word about the support that’s available to them.”
