Waking up to sleep: exploring how Medway sleeps

Poor sleep quality and insufficient sleep duration are linked to increased stress, impaired emotional regulation and reduced workplace productivity contributing to an estimated £40bn annual loss to the UK economy. Healthwatch Medway researched the sleep health and sleep routines of Medway residents between July and August 2025 to provide insight into the broader impact of sleep on health and wellbeing.  They spoke to 97 people.

1% of participants reported poor or very poor sleep quality, with only 28% reporting good or very good sleep quality. 

68% of participants sleep less than they believe they should and 25% reported never waking up feeling refreshed and ready for the day. 

Mental health, physical health and work-related stress were among the most frequently cited factors negatively impacting sleep. 

Undisturbed sleep was the most common definition of good sleep, while lethargy and exhaustion were the most reported consequences of poor sleep. 

Sleep disparities were evident across employment status, deprivation levels and age groups, with unemployed individuals and individuals from areas of higher overall deprivation more likely to experience poor sleep