• Food, drink and gifts donated to patients at Royal Bolton Hospital observing Ramadan
• Bolton Council of Mosques have provided dates and water for staff to break the fast
• Our Bolton NHS Charity are handing out Ramadan packs, including a prayer book and honey

Food, drink and gifts have been donated to Royal Bolton Hospital to help support staff and patients who are observing the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.

Ramadan began on Saturday 1 March and will last for 30 days, concluding on the evening of Sunday 30 March 2025, subject to moon sighting.

Similar to many other religions, Ramadan is a time of fasting, prayer, and spiritual renewal for Muslims around the world.

During this period, healthy Muslim adults and young people fast from dawn until sunset, abstaining from food and drink.

The Bolton Council of Mosques (BCoM) has donated packs of dates and water for staff and patients to enjoy whilst breaking the fast in the hospital’s Mosque and Faith Hub.

Ramadan gift packs are also being handed out to patients by Our Bolton NHS Charity, which contain honey, a tasbeeh (prayer beads), Safawi dates, a bottle of Zam Zam water and a prayer book.

Imteyaz Ali, Bolton North East governor at Bolton NHS Foundation Trust and member of the Bolton Council of Mosques, said:

Bolton Council of Mosques has been actively engaged in volunteering and facilitating community development, cohesion and collaboration since its inception over two decades ago.

“As part of its Ramadan charity activities, we are happy to provide Royal Bolton Hospital water and dates for families who visit the hospital to break the fast.

“Dates are consumed across the globe by Muslims to break a fast in adherence with the practice of the Prophet Muhammad peace be upon him.

“We hope that this small gesture will provide some comfort to families whilst they visit their loved ones in hospital during the month of Ramadan. We’re grateful to the hospital for its kind collaboration in this and other work they do with us.

“Bolton Council of Mosques wishes a very blessed Ramadan to all. You are all in our prayers.

Throughout Ramadan, reasonable and flexible adjustments are in place to help staff observe their religious obligations, feel comfortable embracing their identity in the workplace and enable them to bring their whole selves to work.

Sarah Skinner, Charity Manager at Our Bolton NHS Charity, said:

We’re really pleased to provide gift packs to Muslim patients who are observing Ramadan during their hospital stay.

“Ramadan is a special time for spiritual growth, charity and community and while we appreciate there is nothing like being at home with friends and family, we hope small, thoughtful gestures like the Ramadan gift packs offer comfort to our patients.

As Muslims across Bolton observe Ramadan, NHS Greater Manchester is sharing tips and advice to help people stay healthy while fasting.

Long fasting hours and changes to eating and sleeping patterns can impact well-being, so NHS Greater Manchester has some simple steps for a healthy Ramadan.

Stay Hydrated

Most people who fast during Ramadan will experience mild dehydration, which could cause headaches, tiredness and difficulty concentrating. Drink plenty of water between Iftar (breaking the fast) and Suhur (pre-dawn meal) to prevent dehydration. Aim for at least six to eight glasses of water and avoid caffeinated drinks like coffee and tea as they can increase the risk of further dehydration.

Choose Nutrient-Rich Foods

Opt for slow-releasing energy foods:
• Whole grains like brown rice
• Lean proteins like chicken, turkey and tofu
• Fibre-rich vegetables such as brussels sprout, carrots, broccoli and peas.
• Dates are a great traditional choice to replenish energy quickly but balance them with protein and healthy fats to avoid sugar spikes.

Eat a Balanced Suhur

The pre-dawn meal, Suhur, provides fluids and energy for the day of fasting ahead, so making healthy choices can help you to cope better with the fast. Include carbohydrates like oats or wholemeal bread, along with protein sources such as eggs or yoghurt, to keep you fuller for longer.

Pace Yourself at Iftar

Break your fast with dates and water, followed by a light soup or salad before moving on to a balanced main meal. Avoid overeating or consuming too many fried and sugary foods, which may leave you feeling tired and sleepy.

Get Enough Rest

With late-night prayers and early morning meals, sleep patterns can be disrupted. Try to maintain a consistent sleep routine and take short naps if needed to stay refreshed.

Keep Moving

While fasting, energy levels may be lower than usual, but gentle activity such as walking or stretching can help maintain fitness. Light exercise after Iftar can aid digestion and prevent stiffness.