Caring for yourself and others during Ramadan
At Barts Health, WeCare about people staying healthy during Ramadan. Ramadan is the month in which Muslims fast, whereby they refrain from eating and drinking during the daylight hours from dawn to sunset. It’s also a time for self-reflection and evaluation.
This year the holiest month in the Islamic calendar starts on or around Thursday 23 April and lasts until the evening of Saturday 23 May.
The Covid-19 pandemic will mean what is traditionally a communal time when families can come together will be different this year. Such congregational acts of worship have been suspended this year to combat the spread of the virus. Please spend #RamadanAtHome.
The Trust aims to encourage people to fast safely. Those with increased risk of contracting COVID-19 should consider alternative options to fasting. These include those who are unwell due to conditions including diabetes, blood pressure, heart disease, lung disease, or those who are on medication, pregnant or elderly.
People should contact their GP, NHS 111 or clinical team if they have any questions. If fasting is not recommended, they should speak to their local Imam who can advise them if there are ways they may be able to get the same reward as fasting.
Yunus Dhudwala, Head of our Chaplaincy Service at Barts Health NHS Trust, said: “Ramadan is the most important spiritual month for Muslims during the Islamic year. Yes we will continue to fast despite being in lockdown. Though it has to be safe for someone to fast. Patients who suffer from any chronic illness or health complication should consult their health professional prior to fasting. They may recommend that they don’t fast. This year it’s going to be different with social distancing rules in place, but we can still have a fruitful, spiritual and blessed Ramadan."
Our Muslim chaplains are on hand to support, educate and advise patients and staff, contact:
- The Royal London and St Bartholomew's hospitals on 020 3594 2070
- Newham and Whipps Cross hospitals on 020 7363 8053 or through the switchboard.