Ramadan in the work place
Ramadan started on 12th April where many Muslims around the world fast from Sunrise to sunset, ending on 12th May. As an employer, it is important you consider your employees taking part in Ramadan, and look at ways you can support them throughout this time.
Engagement is key
Productivity of an employee who is fasting may be affected at certain times of the day. It’s important you make yourself aware of this and support your employees instead of pressuring them. The best way to do this is by engaging with your staff who are currently experiencing Ramadan and discuss ways you can make the working environment fit around their needs. Showing understanding and compassion at this time will make your team feel supported. This will also build a positive working relationship.
Flexible Working
We advise you to consider the dates of Ramadan in advance. Look in to who in your team this can affect. If you have the opportunity to offer flexible working at this time, then we encourage you to do so. This can include shift swapping and working from home. You can also look at changing shift patterns, and encouraging staff to start and finish earlier in the day to help with fasting during the day.
Support your Staff with Special Requirements
If your business requires your team to work late hours, make sure there are a varied choice of meals available for staff fasting. Furthermore, give Muslim staff allowance to take personal time at sunset to break their fast. In addition, allow enough time for staff to pray and eat.
Appropriate Meeting Times
Keep in mind that fasting for a long period of time can be incredibly difficult and scheduling meetings in the evening can be stressful for many people. In addition, morning meetings may be a more appropriate time for concentration. You may have a range of virtual evening functions coming up in your company. We encourage you not to make this compulsory as this is a crucial time for many of your staff members to eat and pray with family.
Eid
Eid is a festival that marks the end of Ramadan. This is a very important time for Muslims and we encourage you to allow this time off to celebrate. Eid starts at the sighting of the new moon which can mean that staff may not know the specific days yet. We encourage you to keep this in mind and be flexible with your staff to allow them this time off.
For more information, contact us at The HR Booth on 01383 668178 or email us through our website.
