What exactly is "good sleep"?

As we mark World Sleep Day 2024, it's imperative to reflect on the importance of sleep equity – the notion that every individual deserves access to high-quality sleep regardless of their background or circumstances. At Together Trust, we firmly believe in this principle and are committed to championing sleep equity for children and young people with Autism or social communication difficulties.

Sleep challenges are prevalent among children and young people with Autism or social communication difficulties, often stemming from sensory sensitivities, anxiety, and difficulties in regulating emotions and behaviours. Sleep difficulties have been found to be present in up to 80% of children with a neurodevelopmental condition (Allison Beck Blackmer, 2016), a shocking statistic to read.

Quality sleep is a fundamental pillar of overall health and well-being, with families we work with reporting that the young person is unable to access their education or the family is unable to access their employment. The knock-on effect of poor sleep can be catastrophic. Yet, it remains an elusive dream for many individuals.

But what exactly is healthy sleep? Healthy sleep is much more than simply getting "enough sleep". Healthy sleep involves multiple factors, which is what we look for when working 1:1 with families. This includes:

1. Sleep duration - How much sleep did the young person get over 24 hours? We look at the average sleep required for the young person's age alongside other factors.

2. Efficiency - How well do they fall asleep and stay asleep?

3. Timing - When does the young person sleep? Is it in the daytime, nighttime, or a mix of both? While at school, while travelling?

4. Regularity - When do they usually sleep and wake? Is this a regular pattern?

5. Quality - Does the young person wake up refreshed? Are they satisfied with their sleep?

All of these elements help to build a bigger picture of the young person's sleep.

Recognising the critical role that sleep plays in the lives of those we support, the Together Trust has assembled a dedicated team of sleep practitioners. We work 1:1 with families in the North West of England and we are devoted to improving sleep quality, understanding the unique sleep challenges faced by individuals with additional needs. We understand that one size does not fit all when it comes to sleep support and so all sleep plans and support is individualised.