Preparing for a Healthy and Blessed Ramadan
As Ramadan approaches from Sunday, March 10 to Tuesday, April 9, 2024 (depending on moon sighting), Muslims worldwide are gearing up for a month of fasting, prayer, and community connection.
Ramadan is a time of spiritual and religious significance for many of our colleagues alongside an opportunity to focus on their health and well-being. For those with long-term health issues, the decision to fast is personal. Please consult your local healthcare professionals to ensure safe fasting practices.
Dr Sohail Abbas, Deputy Medical Director for NHS West Yorkshire Integrated Care Board, highlights, “It’s important for colleagues with conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure to discuss fasting concerns with their health and care professionals.”
Tazeem Hanif, NHS West Yorkshire ICB, People Business Partner said: “Ramadan is an important time for self- reflection, devotion and spiritual discipline and development.
It is a time when families and communities gather and connect and practice kindness, compassion, and forgiveness”.
Dr Waqas Tahir, Clinical Diabetes Lead for NHS West Yorkshire Integrated Care Board, adds, “Fasting can be challenging for people working in healthcare too. Simple steps like staying hydrated and taking breaks can support a successful fasting experience.”
Here are some practical tips for a healthy fast:
- Take short breaks instead of a lunch break.
- Stay hydrated with water and avoid caffeine.
- Maintain a balanced diet and include light exercise.
As Ramadan approaches, it’s important to extend support to our colleagues who will be fasting during this sacred month. Fasting can be physically and mentally demanding, and our understanding can make a significant difference in their experience.
Here are some ways we can support our fasting colleagues:
- Flexible meetings: Offer flexibility in work hours where possible to accommodate changes in energy levels and meal times.
- Breaks for prayer: Allow time for prayer breaks during the workday, respecting the spiritual practices of our fasting colleagues.
- Understanding: Be mindful of potential fatigue or changes in mood due to fasting, and support colleagues with understanding.
- Offering assistance: Extend a helping hand with tasks that may be physically demanding, especially during times of low energy.
- Celebrating diversity: Take this opportunity to learn more about Ramadan and its significance.
NHS Muslim Network support package
The NHS Muslim Network has launched a new support package that includes the following:
- Talent development webinars
- Rapid talent development webinars
- Leadership development webinars
- Career development support
- Wellbeing webinars and support
- Speaking up support
- Allyship webinars
- Events
- Ramadan and Eid Al Fitr support 2024
- Member meetings
- How to be a better Muslim series
- Islamic support
This new support package is integral to the network in achieving it’s vision of “Inspiring, celebrating and championing the contribution of the NHS Muslim community.” All work undertaken by the National NHS Muslim Network is in alignment with the NHS People Promise.
View the support package on the NHS Muslim Website network website.
Become an NHS Muslim Network member.
View the NHS Muslim Network Brochure.
Have question about the Network or the support package? Email: england.
