Our Research
Building a better understanding of sleep.
Research helps us understand the nation’s sleep, the challenges people face and where better support is needed.
At The Sleep Charity, we’re committed to growing the evidence around sleep and using research to help shape the advice, support and services people receive. We work with researchers, academics and other organisations to explore important sleep issues and turn what we learn into meaningful action.
Our research also helps us raise awareness, influence conversations around sleep and ensure the information we share is informed by the latest evidence.
Explore our research
Discover our published research and the work we’re doing to improve understanding of sleep and its impact on our health and wellbeing
Understanding the impact of COVID-19 on children’s sleep
Published online: August 30, 2022
This study explored how the COVID-19 pandemic affected the sleep and wellbeing of children and young people. It found that while sleep was affected across the board, those with special educational needs experienced greater sleep disruption and were more likely to report anxiety, stress and poorer mental wellbeing.
Improving children’s sleep through online support
Published online: December 31, 2021
This study evaluated The Sleep Charity’s online Sleep Practitioner service for families in Lincolnshire. It found significant improvements in children’s sleep and wellbeing following support, including falling asleep more quickly, fewer night-time awakenings and longer sleep duration. The findings also showed the potential for online sleep support to provide families with an accessible and effective alternative to face-to-face services.
Exploring new treatments for insomnia in young people
Published online: April 06, 2026
This research outlines a clinical trial exploring the safety and effectiveness of daridorexant as a potential treatment for insomnia in children and teenagers aged 10–17, including young people with ADHD or autism. The Sleep Charity contributed to this research, which aims to build evidence around future treatment options for young people experiencing insomnia.