Ramadan: Understanding, supporting and embracing diversity

Ramadan is the holiest month in the Islamic calendar and is observed by Muslims worldwide. This year, Ramadan will begin around 1st or 2nd March 2025, depending on the sighting of the moon, and will last for 29 or 30 days.

There are five key practices that all Muslims are obligated to fulfil throughout their lifetime, and fasting during the holy month of Ramadan (Sawm), is the fourth pillar of Islam. Ordained in the Holy Qur'an, fasting is an act of deep personal worship in which Muslims seek a richer perception of God.

Fasting during Ramadan is obligatory for all healthy adult Muslims who have reached puberty. However, there are exemptions for individuals whose health may be adversely affected, such as those who are ill, pregnant, breastfeeding, or living with long-term health conditions.

Any missed or broken fasts must be made up at a later date, or alternatively, a charitable donation known as fidyah should be given. These donations, in the form of food or money, help provide for those in need.

Many NHS staff and service users who observe Ramadan will participate in daily fasting, abstaining from food, drink (including water and medication) from sunrise to sunset. However, Ramadan is more than just fasting—it is a time for self-reflection, communal prayer, and spiritual growth. It is also an opportunity for family gatherings to break the fast and concludes with the joyous celebration of Eid-ul-Fitr.

Hanifa Musisi, District Nurse Team Leader – Violet Melchett Health & Well Being Hub said:

"My faith is the foundation of my identity and shapes my values, ethics, and purpose in life. One moment that stands out is when colleagues recognised the importance of Ramadan. They were supportive of my fasting by scheduling meetings with flexibility and being mindful of not offering food or drinks. A colleague even asked about Eid celebrations, which led to an open and respectful conversation about my faith. It was heartening to see genuine interest and efforts to accommodate my religious practices, making me feel valued and respected.

"CLCH has been accommodating by fostering an inclusive work environment. There are spaces available for prayer, which is essential for Muslims who pray five times a day, and I’ve also been able to negotiate access to Health and Wellbeing Spaces in health centres for prayer. Additionally, flexible working arrangements, such as adjusting non-clinical working hours on Friday afternoons to allow time for Jummah prayer, have made a significant difference. This flexibility and understanding have enabled me to balance my spiritual commitments with my professional responsibilities seamlessly. The organisation’s openness to diversity and cultural awareness ensures that I feel comfortable practising my faith without any hesitation."

To help deepen understanding, watch a short video featuring three of our Muslim colleagues sharing what Ramadan means to them, explaining its significance as one of the five pillars of Islam, and reflecting on how fasting develops Taqwa—a heightened awareness of God. They also encourage non-Muslim colleagues to try fasting for a day to experience its spiritual and physical aspects firsthand. Click on the YouTube link below to watch the video:

This year, Nutrition and Hydration Week (March 17–23) coincides with Ramadan, making it a great time to explore ways to maintain good health while fasting. Download our factsheet for valuable nutritional advice to support a healthy Ramadan experience.

Resources on managing diabetes while fasting during Ramadan are available on the NHS England website. These can be shared with patients and service users to ensure their health and well-being.

Additionally, The Royal College of Speech and Language Therapist published An SLTs guide to navigating Ramadan.

This guide gives an overview of Ramadan and its significance, including:

• Considerations working with patients and families during Ramadan (including swallowing assessments, medication, working with patients with Eating disorders, Learning disabilities and Neurodivergence).

We encourage everyone to be mindful of the physical and emotional challenges that may arise during this period. For more information about this you can explore the Mental Health Foundation's tips to look after your mental health during Ramadan.