Supporting Staff During Ramadan

With Muslims around the world observing Ramadan (2nd of April to 1st of May), it is important for employers to be aware of how they can help and support staff during this period.

Ramadan is one of the most spiritual times of the Islamic calendar. Muslims that are healthy must abstain from eating, drinking, and smoking during daylight hours. It is an occasion that encourages prayer, acts of charity and self-reflection. It is also a time where employers can take steps to support staff that are observing this period.

We’ve put together this short blog to give you some tips to help support your Muslim workers and ensure they feel included and respected.

Talk to your employees

As a principle it is important to understand that Muslim people are not a monolith, everyone will have their own approach and preferences to the practice of their faith. Speaking with your workers about their preferences will help find a mutually beneficial arrangement.

Work flexibility

Combined with fasting and increased time dedicated to community events and worship, you may find that workers observing Ramadan may impact on energy levels. Allowing for flexible work arrangements (where possible) is a good option. This may involve earlier start and finish times, or trading lunch breaks for an earlier finish. You may also want to consider leave requests towards the end of Ramadan as this is a very sacred time.

Creating an inclusive environment

Employers can help create an inclusive environment by creating spaces for prayer and reflection. Being mindful to schedule any team meals to be held after daylight hours so that Muslim employees can participate are great ways to support them.

As you can see it doesn’t take much to create an inclusive workplace during this time. A little bit of effort and understanding can go a long way to supporting anyone observing Ramadan.