Lincoln Sleep Research Advocates for Permanent UK Standard Time

The group issued a statement through the British Sleep Society (BSS), published in the Journal of Sleep Research (JSR). The statement advocates for the abolition of the twice-yearly clock changes in the UK and instead, the restoration of permanent Standard Time (Greenwich Mean Time, GMT).  

Their recommendation is based on scientific evidence which highlights the impact and adverse effect of this clock change and Daylight Saving Time (DST) on sleep and circadian health. The BSS emphasises that sleep is central to health and wellbeing and the enforced changes of clock time to DST can interfere negatively with sleep regulation. 

Simon Durrant, Associate Professor and Director of the Lincoln Sleep Research Centre at the University of Lincoln, explains: “Sleep is essential to health and the twice-yearly clock changes disrupt sleep for everyone in the UK twice a year, with potentially serious consequences for some.   

“Permanent standard time in which morning light, important to reset our body clocks, is available all-year round would be a much better solution, while still allowing plenty of evening light during the summer.” 

Dr Megan Crawford, University of Strathclyde, added: “Discussions around abolishing the twice-yearly clock change keep emerging, alarmingly some want to replace it with Daylight Saving Time all year round.  

“Other sleep societies have argued against this and the return to all year-round Standard Time, but there is currently no published UK perspective. The unique location and orientation of our UK landmass needs to be considered because permanent DST would over-disadvantage people west and north of London.” 

The Society emphasises that natural daylight in the morning is crucial for maintaining an optimal alignment of our body clocks with day and night, which is essential for optimal sleep and overall health. 

This statement highlights the potential risks of adopting permanent DST, which include depriving the UK population of essential morning light, particularly during the winter months. This lack of morning light could lead to significant disruptions in sleep patterns and circadian rhythms, with potential long-term health consequences.  

The BSS recommendation for permanent Standard Time is supported by several organisations, including The Irish Sleep Society, British Paediatric Sleep Society, Capella (Sleep Action), The Sleep Charity, and The British Society of Pharmacy Sleep Services.  

The Society urges policymakers to consider the health and wellbeing of the UK population and to engage in discussions with the Republic of Ireland to avoid a time zone boundary across the island. 

The statement is available to read online: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jsr.14352.  

For further information, please contact the British Sleep Society: admin@sleepsociety.org.uk, or Professor Simon Durrant: sidurrant@lincoln.ac.uk.