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An independent evaluation of the outcomes of the Sleep Scotland programme was conducted by The Centre For Health And Social Research, a health services research unit based within the NHS. It involved semi-structured interviews with twenty families before and after they took part in the programme, plus an analysis of their stress levels over the same period. Information was also gathered from sleep counsellors and other professionals who had regular contact with the children of the families interviewed.

• 16 out of 17 families who were followed up had either surpassed their initial goals or achieved them fully or partly.
• More than half of parents who took part in Sleep Scotland’s intervention programme felt that their child’s sleep problem had significantly improved in a number of ways.
• There were noticeable improvements in family life with more time available to spend with partners or other children.
• Stress and anxiety levels were significantly lower among parents after they took part in the programme.
• The flexible and practical advice in dealing with sleep problems helped to build confidence among parents.
• Some parents found coping at work was easier as a result of the programme.
• The majority of parents received little or no support or information before contacting Sleep Scotland.
• There is a definite need for support for families with children who have additional support needs and sleep problems.

"It’s just completely turned around, it’s smashing!"

"We have actually had several times when he has gone through the night - we are probably now down to once or twice a night."

"The advice I was given from Sleep Scotland is the most consistent and best advice we’d ever received."

"They [sleep counsellors] were great. They kept phoning up and saying "How’s it going?" and really the ideas were great."

"The stress was sky-high. At one point I went to the doctor and he put me on Prozac. I’m not on that now."

"We hadn’t been out socially together in a long time but since the programme started we’ve been out a few times."

"It’s a funny wee thing but there’s more laughter... you know, more time to sit and have a natter."