Sleep and Service: Why Rest Matters for Local Government Officers and Members
- truthaboutlocalgov
- 4 days ago
- 4 min read
Updated: 3 days ago
In the world of local government, where decisions shape communities and responsibilities are vast, sleep might seem like a luxury. But it’s not. It’s a necessity. For officers and elected members alike, quality sleep is essential—not just for personal wellbeing, but for effective public service.
This blog explores why sleep matters, how it impacts health and performance, and what practical steps local government professionals can take to improve their sleep habits.
Why Sleep Matters
Sleep is not just a passive state of rest. It’s a vital biological function that supports nearly every system in the body. According to the Mental Health Foundation, “Sleep is as essential to our bodies as eating, drinking and breathing, and is vital for maintaining good mental and physical health”.
During sleep, the brain processes information, consolidates memories, and clears out toxins. The body repairs tissues, balances hormones, and strengthens the immune system. Without enough sleep, these processes are disrupted—leading to a cascade of health and cognitive issues.
The Cost of Poor Sleep
For those in high-pressure roles like local government, the consequences of poor sleep can be particularly damaging. The NHS highlights that sleep deprivation can lead to:
Reduced concentration and decision-making ability
Increased irritability and stress
Weakened immune function
Higher risk of anxiety and depression
As one officer shared in a wellbeing workshop:
“I used to think I could power through on five hours a night. But I was constantly foggy, short-tempered, and making mistakes. It wasn’t sustainable.”
Sleep deprivation doesn’t just affect the individual—it can impact entire teams and communities. Poor decisions, missed details, and burnout can ripple through departments and services.
Sleep and Mental Health
The relationship between sleep and mental health is bidirectional. Poor sleep can contribute to mental health problems, and mental health issues can make it harder to sleep. The Mental Health Foundation notes:
“Sleep and mental health are strongly linked. Poor sleep can increase the risk of having poor health, and poor health can make it harder to sleep”.
For councillors and officers dealing with emotionally charged issues—such as housing crises, social care, or community conflict—this link is especially important. Prioritising sleep is not indulgent; it’s protective.
How Much Sleep Do We Need?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but most adults need between 7 to 9 hours of sleep per night. What matters most is consistency and quality.
Signs you’re not getting enough good-quality sleep include:
Waking up tired despite a full night in bed
Relying on caffeine to stay alert
Feeling irritable or overwhelmed
Struggling to focus or remember things
Barriers to Sleep in Local Government
Local government professionals face unique challenges that can interfere with sleep:
Long hours and evening meetings: Many councillors attend meetings after a full day’s work.
Stress and emotional labour: Officers often deal with vulnerable residents and high-stakes decisions.
Digital overload: Constant emails, social media, and news alerts can keep the brain in overdrive.
On-call responsibilities: Emergency planning or housing officers may be called out at night.
Recognising these barriers is the first step to overcoming them.
Tips for Better Sleep
The good news? There are practical, evidence-based strategies that can help improve sleep. Here are some of the most effective, drawn from NHS guidance and mental health experts.
1. Establish a Consistent Sleep Routine
Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day—even on weekends—helps regulate your body’s internal clock.
“A good sleep routine should include having a set time to start winding down,” says the NHS Every Mind Matters guide.
Try setting a “wind-down alarm” an hour before bed to remind yourself to start relaxing.
2. Create a Sleep-Friendly Environment
Your bedroom should be a sanctuary for sleep. That means:
Cool, dark, and quiet: Use blackout curtains, earplugs, or white noise if needed.
Comfortable bedding: Invest in a good mattress and pillows.
No screens: Avoid phones, tablets, and TVs at least an hour before bed.
Blue light from screens suppresses melatonin, the hormone that helps you sleep.
3. Limit Caffeine and Alcohol
Caffeine can stay in your system for up to 8 hours. Try to avoid it after 2pm. Alcohol might make you feel sleepy, but it disrupts deep sleep and can lead to early waking.
4. Manage Stress Before Bed
If your mind races at night, try:
Journaling: Write down worries or a to-do list to clear your head.
Breathing exercises: Try the 4-7-8 technique—inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 7, exhale for 8.
Guided meditation: Apps like Headspace or NHS’s “Beditation” can help you unwind.
5. Be Mindful of Naps
Short naps (20–30 minutes) can be refreshing, but long or late naps can interfere with night-time sleep. If you’re regularly exhausted during the day, it’s a sign your night-time sleep needs attention.
Supporting Sleep in the Workplace
Local authorities can play a role in promoting healthy sleep habits among staff and members. Consider:
Flexible working: Allowing staggered start times can help those with sleep difficulties.
Wellbeing training: Include sleep education in mental health and resilience workshops.
Digital boundaries: Encourage a culture where emails aren’t expected late at night.
Rest spaces: Provide quiet rooms for short breaks or power naps during long shifts.
As one HR lead shared:
“We’ve started talking about sleep in our wellbeing check-ins. It’s amazing how many people are struggling silently.”
Councillors: A Special Case
Elected members often face irregular hours, high public visibility, and emotionally charged issues. Sleep can be elusive—but it’s essential.
Tips for councillors:
Schedule downtime: Block out evenings or weekends for rest.
Limit screen time: Especially after late meetings or debates.
Talk about it: Share experiences with fellow councillors—peer support matters.
The Local Government Association (LGA) encourages councillors to prioritise self-care, including sleep, as part of their leadership development.
Final Thoughts
Sleep is not a luxury—it’s a leadership tool. For local government officers and members, good sleep supports better decisions, stronger relationships, and more resilient communities.
As the Mental Health Foundation puts it:
“We all need to make sure we get the right amount of sleep, and enough good quality sleep”.
So tonight, put down the phone, dim the lights, and give yourself permission to rest. Your community will thank you for it.