Ways to help your friends and colleagues who are fasting during Ramadan

For the next 30 days, Muslims across the world will be observing the holy month of Ramadan. Islamic institutions have reported sightings of the crescent of the new moon and it has been announced that many will begin their fast on Thursday (March 23).

This means that until April 21, Muslims will be abstaining from food and drink from sunrise to sun set and will will be breaking their fast during the evenings. During this time however, Muslims must carry on with their day to day such as still going to work or school.

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Fasting during Ramadan is considered obligatory for all healthy Muslim men, women and children who have reached puberty. During Ramadan, each day is different for those taking part, some days are harder and some easier depending on your life, occupation and health status.

Sports stars have been some of the most high profile cases over the years. Professional football players such as Manchester City's Riyad Mahrez and Liverpool's Mo Salah still fast on matchdays despite taking part in a physically demanding sport.

Recently the Premier League made headlines when they announced that referees have been told to allow a pause in play so Muslim players can break their fast with liquids, energy gels, or supplements.

For those who have Muslim friends, colleagues or families and thinking of ways to help them get through their days, here are some things you can do.

Regular check ups

Some jobs can be more taxing than others during the month of Ramadan. During the pandemic we saw a number of key workers powering through the days while fasting during the height of a global pandemic.

As with most things in life, a check up and chat goes a