From 18 February to 20 March, Muslim colleagues across United Lincolnshire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust will begin their fast before sunrise, take no food or drink during the hours of daylight, and break their fast once the sun has set.
To support staff who will be observing Ramadan whilst at work, the charity has gifted each colleague water and dates to use when their fast ends.
Consultant Anaesthetist Yusuf Ghumra, who has worked in the theatres at Lincoln County Hospital for three years, explained why Ramadan is such an important time. He said: “It is like a spiritual bootcamp where we develop our connections with God.
“It is incredible that United Lincolnshire Hospitals Charity is recognising that we are entering this holy month. This gift is a lovely gesture that helps break down barriers.”
“The breaking of the fast is a communal event, and we look forward to meeting for a few minutes each day to have a cup of water and share our dates before we resume our duties. Dates hold a deep significance in Islamic culture and tradition, and it is considered an honour for the giver if someone breaks their fast with a gifted date.”
Jayne Warner, Director of Corporate Affairs for Lincolnshire Community and Hospitals NHS Group, and Charity Manager, Ben Petts met with colleagues after prayers to share the gifts. Ben said: “For our Muslim colleagues, Ramadan is a most beautiful time of year. It is good to show our support as they observe this holy tradition.”
Ramada ends on 20 March and is followed by the festival of Eid al-Fitr, the festival of breaking the fast. As Yusuf summed up: “We have done it, we’ve fasted, enjoyed our additional night prayers and now it is Eid, a time of great celebration with family and friends.”
More information on how to support the work of United Lincolnshire Hospitals Charity can be found on the website: ulhcharity.org.uk