Sleep well

Prioritise quality sleep and a regular bedtime routine
The Brain Health Campaign logo
A cartoon brain asleep with a night cap on

How does sleep affect brain health?

Long periods of poor sleep - especially sleep disorders like sleep apnoea - can affect memory, thinking, and may increase dementia risk.

What can we do to reduce this risk?

Even small changes can make a big difference:

✔ Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep each night

✔ Keep a regular sleep routine

✔ Avoid stimulants such as caffeine, alcohol and nicotine in the evening

✔ Speak to your GP if you snore heavily or feel tired during the day


What support is available in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire?

NHS logo

Find a pharmacy - NHS

The NHS 'Find a pharmacy' tool lets you locate open pharmacies in England by postcode or current location, with details of opening times, late night and out of hours services. You can also browse online only pharmacies and dispensing contractors.

Go to, Find a pharmacy - NHS (opens in new tab)

Locate and register with a GP - NHS

Find out more about registering with a GP Surgery, enter your postcode to list local Medical Centres and register online.

Go to, Locate and register with a GP - NHS (opens in new tab)
Better Health every mind matters logo

Fall asleep faster and sleep better - Better Health every mind Matters - NHS

NHS Every Mind Matters' 'How to fall asleep faster and sleep better' page gives practical tips such as setting a regular routine, winding down, creating a good sleep environment, and improving sleep through diet and exercise, with a short video. You can also sign up for a six week email programme for step by step support.

Go to, Fall asleep faster and sleep better - Better Health every mind matters - NHS (opens in new tab)
The Sleep Charity logo

The Sleep Charity

A leading, independent expert voice on sleep issues in the UK and we are here to help everyone get a better night’s sleep. Whether it’s advice, education or support for children, teenagers, adults, workplaces or professionals, we are on hand with expert knowledge, resources and accredited training.

Go to, Adults - The sleep Charity (opens in new tab)

Information for professionals

  • Identify possible sleep concerns
  • Refer to sleep clinics or mental health services if needed
  • Promote good sleep habits in public health campaigns

Acknowledgement: This resource has drawn upon and been informed by the Derby and Derbyshire Brain Health Toolkit (© 2026 Derbyshire County Council). Content has been adapted and reused for non-commercial purposes in accordance with the toolkit's copyright and licensing conditions. We gratefully acknowledge the contribution of Derbyshire County Council and all partners involved in the development of the brain health hub.

Last updated: 27 October 2026