AS CHILDREN across the country return to the classroom after the summer break, NHS doctor and TV personality Dr Ranj will visit pupils and parents in York to talk about the importance of a good night’s sleep.
It’s all part of a countrywide School of Sleep Roadshow, organised by national furniture retailer Furniture Village in collaboration with The Sleep Charity, whose joint mission is to support the nation when it comes to sleep.
Dr Ranj is the Sleep and Wellness Ambassador for Furniture Village and has been an integral part of the campaign to date. In addition to his visit to York, he’ll also be taking the Roadshow to schools across Birmingham, Bristol, Manchester and Slough throughout September.
A staggering 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. Dr Ranj will be offering sleep health tips for the whole family and discussing simple steps that can be taken to establish a good bedtime routine.
Dr Ranj, Sleep and Wellness Ambassador for Furniture Village, said: “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’ve joined forces with Furniture Village and The Sleep Charity to devise this programme.
“I’m 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 offer can make a tangible difference to the whole family’s wellbeing.”
Dr Ranj will speak to pupils and parents during an afternoon assembly at Poppleton Ousebank Primary School on Thursday, September 22, with followed by an informal Q&A.
Dr Ranj added: “Sleep is always a hot topic for parents. When you combine that with having to adjust sleep schedules after six weeks off school, it can be an incredibly challenging and stressful time for children, parents and teachers.
“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.”
Best known as resident doctor on ITV’s This Morning, 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. Those looking for help can call 03303 530 540 (Sunday – Thursday, 7 – 9 pm).
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.”
Find more information visit www.thesleepcharity.org.uk and www.furniturevillage.co.uk/sleep-essentials.html
