Scotland Speaks: School of Medicine launches nation’s largest sleep study to date
In a groundbreaking effort to reshape Scotland’s public health landscape, researchers at the University of St Andrews School of Medicine have launched Scotland Speaks, the largest-ever survey of Scottish residents’ sleep health, experiences, and views on national policy. This pioneering study, conducted in collaboration with the World Sleep Society, aims to drive policy reform by addressing a long-ignored public health crisis—sleep deprivation.
Despite its fundamental role in physical and mental well-being, sleep remains overlooked in health policies, workplace initiatives, and education. While governments worldwide are beginning to recognise sleep as a critical public health concern, the UK has yet to follow suit, leaving millions at risk of poor health outcomes.
The Reality of Scotland’s Sleep Crisis
- 70% of adults and 90% of adolescents fail to meet sleep recommendations.
- Short-term sleep deprivation increases stress, impairs cognitive function, and leads to workplace and academic underperformance.
- Long-term consequences include heightened risks of obesity, heart disease, mental health disorders, neurodegenerative conditions, and a greater burden on the NHS.
Leading the study, Research Fellow Dr Emma Louise Gale, an expert in child and adolescent sleep health, emphasises the urgency of this research:
“Scotland has an opportunity to lead the way in sleep health policy. We want to hear from people across the country about their sleep experiences—because better sleep means a healthier, more productive Scotland. This study will help shape discussions on policy changes, workplace wellbeing, and education reform.”
The 15-20 minute anonymous survey invites all Scottish residents aged 16+ to share their sleep habits, lifestyle factors, and views on policy solutions. The findings will be used to advocate for evidence-based changes in public health strategy, ensuring sleep is recognised alongside diet and exercise as a fundamental pillar of health.
We invite you to take part in the survey here.
The School of Medicine looks forward seeing the findings of this pioneering study and how they inform policy around this crucial public health issue.
For direct media inquiries, interviews, or further information, please contact:
Dr Emma Louise Gale