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What is Ramadan?
Ramadan is considered one of the most spiritual times of the year for Muslims across the world. During this holy month, Muslims spend a period of 30 days abstaining from food and drink during daylight hours. This will invariably impact many Muslims at work but there are things employers can do to minimise impact and help support their Muslim staff.
How to support Muslims at work during Ramadan
Different people will be celebrating Ramadan in various ways.
One of the best ways to show your support is by showing an understanding and considering how you can support individuals.
Here are some ways to support Muslims at work during Ramadan:
- Be flexible with working patterns
One of the most helpful things that an employer can do for employees observing Ramadan is to allow them to adjust their working patterns.
Employers should remember that not eating during daylight hours, coupled with longer nights can lead to fatigue and can drop concentration levels.
- Discuss with your employees how to help them.
Everyone will have a different relationship and approach to their faith.
Be mindful not to assume your employees’ needs. Provide opportunities where they can openly and safely discuss their needs with you.
- Be prepared for annual leave requests for Eid celebrations
Eid is the festival that marks the end of Ramadan.
This means many people may need to request time off at a relatively short notice as the date of Eid is confirmed on the sighting of the new moon. Others may request a range of 2-3 days off to make sure they will be off work at the right time.
- Provide a private, quiet place
If at all possible, employers could also provide a quiet, private place for Muslim staff to pray during the working day. This would also be welcome so that staff can rest during their break without needing to be around other members of staff who may be eating.
- Raise Ramadan awareness in the workplace
Awareness is a building block for an inclusive workplace. Raising awareness of what Ramadan is and making space for the importance of it and its impact on Muslim colleagues during this time is a great way to build positive team connections. Mutuality and respect are critical in any workplace and working relationship.
At Aston Bond we wish all celebrating a happy Ramadan. For more information on employees’ rights in Ramadan please contact Ilinca Mardarescu (Head of Employment) on imardarescu@astonbond.co.uk or 01753 486 777.
