What's happened
As the UK prepares to turn back the clocks on October 27, the British Sleep Society advocates for a permanent return to Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). Experts argue this change would better align with natural light cycles, promoting healthier sleep patterns and overall well-being. The government currently has no plans to alter the daylight savings system.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to Jane Kirby in The Independent, the British Sleep Society (BSS) has issued a strong recommendation for maintaining GMT year-round, citing the detrimental effects of clock changes on sleep patterns. Professor Malcolm von Schantz stated, 'Natural daylight in the morning is crucial for maintaining an optimal alignment of our body clocks.' Conversely, some advocates for permanent British Summer Time argue it could enhance evening safety and leisure time, as noted in Metro's coverage. The debate continues as the government remains non-committal on changing the current system.
How we got here
The UK traditionally shifts clocks twice a year, moving forward in March and back in October. This practice has faced criticism due to its negative impact on sleep and circadian rhythms, prompting calls for a permanent GMT to enhance public health.
Common question
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How does changing the clocks affect our health?
As the UK prepares to turn back the clocks on October 27, many are wondering about the health implications of this biannual ritual. Experts are increasingly concerned about how these changes disrupt our sleep patterns and overall wellbeing. Below, we explore common questions regarding the health impacts of the clock change and what you can do to adjust.
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What Are the Health Impacts of Changing the Clocks?
As the UK prepares to turn back the clocks on October 27, the debate surrounding the health impacts of this biannual ritual intensifies. Experts are increasingly voicing concerns about how these time changes affect our sleep patterns and overall well-being. This page explores the arguments for and against changing the clocks, the effects on sleep, and what experts recommend for better health.
More on these topics
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The British Sleep Society (BSS) was established in 1988 to support clinicians, researchers, nurses, technologists, scientists and students with an interest in sleep and sleep disorders. It acts as an umbrella organisation, with a number of roles and activ
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During British Summer Time, civil time in the United Kingdom is advanced one hour forward of Greenwich Mean Time, in effect changing the time zone from UTC+00:00 to UTC+01:00, so that mornings have one hour less daylight, and evenings one hour more.