This year’s Ramadan will begin on Saturday, 27th May and last for 30 days.
As an ambulance service we are committed to providing high quality care for all our patients, and supporting our staff. This includes showing understanding, compassion and sensitivity towards working with diverse communities – especially in the month of Ramadan.
What is Ramadan?
In Islamic tradition Ramadan is the ninth month in the Islamic calendar, when the first verses of the Koran or Qur'an were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. Observing Ramadan is regarded as one of the five pillars of Islam.
When is Ramadan?
The dates of Ramadan change each year. This year it commences on Saturday, 27th May to Sunday, 25th June, although this can vary slightly depending upon regional customs and when the new moon is first sighted. It lasts for 29-30 days and ends with the celebration of Eid-Ul-Fitr. The Islamic calendar is lunar, which means that days start at sunset.
What do people do during Ramadan?
Many Muslims will fast each day from sunrise to sunset. This includes not eating food, drinking liquids or smoking. It is common to have one meal known as the suhoor just before sunrise and an evening meal known as Iftar after sunset.
Ramadan is a time of prayer and self-reflection, where Muslims are encouraged to read the entire Qur'an.
It’s also a time for charity-giving, which can involve both making donations and participating in charitable events.
Workplace considerations during Ramadan
For more information, please visit our equality, diversity and human rights pages on East24.
You can also check out the North East London NHS Foundation Trust’s site pages about equality and diversity.
If you have any questions, please contact Equality Diversity and Inclusion Manager Navrita.atwal@eastamb.nhs.uk.
Published May 25th, 2017