Ramadan begins on 2 April and ends on or around 1 May with the festival of Eid–ul-Fitr (the precise dates will vary depending upon location). 

Fasting is obligatory for all adult Muslims during this month. Many of our Muslim patients and staff will want to participate in the fast and therefore appropriate and supportive arrangements should be made to enable their religious observance.

The fasting requirements of Ramadan can have significant implications for care planning so it is important that you familiarise yourself with the attached information.

If you have any particular queries regarding the appropriate care and support to be given please feel free to contact the Trust’s Muslim Chaplain, Imam Fahmid Syed fahmid.syed@merseycare.nhs.uk. Further information and support is available from the Spiritual & Pastoral Care Office (ext 4564) or alternatively email spirit@merseycare.nhs.uk.

What is Ramadan? 

Muslims are required to fast during Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. Sawm is fasting and is the fourth of the Five Pillars of Islam. During the 29/30 days of Ramadan all adult Muslims must give up the following things during the hours of daylight:

• Food or drink of any sort.
• Smoking, including passive smoking.
• Sexual activity.

Muslims who are physically or mentally unwell may be excused some of these, as may those who are under twelve years old, the very old, those who are pregnant, breast-feeding, menstruating, or travelling.

• If an adult does not fast for the reasons above they should try to make up the fast at a later date, or make a donation to the poor instead.

Muslims do not only abstain from physical things during Ramadan. They are also expected to do their best to avoid evil thoughts and deeds as well. There are many good reasons for this fast, including:

• Obeying God.
• Learning self-discipline.
• Becoming spiritually stronger.
• Appreciating God's gifts to us.
• Sharing the sufferings of the poor and developing sympathy for them.
• Realising the value of charity & generosity.
• Giving thanks for the Holy Qur'an, which was first revealed in the month of Ramadan.
• Sharing fellowship with other Muslims.

Eating in Ramadan

During Ramadan many Muslims will try to eat a large meal called "suhur" just before dawn .When daylight is over, most Muslims will break the fast with dates or water, following the example of the Prophet Muhammad before having a proper meal later. The evening meals during Ramadan are occasions for family and community get together.

Ramadan and the Western Calendar

Because Islam uses a lunar calendar, the month of Ramadan comes around 11 days earlier each successive year, so there is no Western season associated with Ramadan. The actual date may vary according to location.

Eid ul-Fitr

The month of Ramadan ends with the festival of Eid ul-Fitr. This is marked by dressing up and visiting the mosque for prayer, and with visits to family and friends for celebratory meals. This festival is to thank Allah for the help and strength that He gave throughout the previous month.