As reported by Workplace Insight, widespread poor sleep is undermining workplace performance across the UK, according to a new survey released by the Mental Health Foundation

The poll of 2,000 adults aged 18 and over found that the average person gets just three nights of good-quality sleep per week, with significant consequences for their ability to function at work.

The study revealed that one in three UK workers admit that lack of sleep makes it harder to concentrate, while one in seven respondents reported that work itself had negatively affected their sleep in the past month. The findings highlight a growing cycle in which workplace stress and insufficient rest are mutually reinforcing. The results coincide with the Government’s Keep Britain Working review, led by Sir Charlie Mayfield, which called for stronger employer action on health and wellbeing in the workplace.

Alexa Knight, director of Policy and Influencing at the Mental Health Foundation, said the research underscores the link between sleep, work stress, and productivity. “This research shows that poor sleep can be both a consequence of work-related stress and a barrier to performing well at work. Many adults report that their jobs are affecting their ability to get good quality sleep, while at the same time, lack of sleep is interfering with their concentration, decision-making and wellbeing. Employers have a vital role to play in creating environments that support healthy sleep, through flexible working, manageable workloads and open conversations about mental health.”

The Mental Health Foundation has a number of free-to-download publications including How to look after mental health at work