• More than 1,250 meals provided to staff and visitors breaking the fast during Ramadan
• Hospital Iftars aims to support physical wellbeing and foster sense of community
• Initiative made possible thanks to generosity of donors and dedication of volunteers

More than 1,250 meals were handed out to staff and visitors at Bolton NHS Foundation Trust to help those observing Ramadan to break their fast.

The Hospital Iftars initiative aimed to support visitors who may have arrived at the hospital with nothing to break their fast while accompanying loved ones, alongside providing meals to staff. Around 80 meals were provided each day to ensure both staff and visitors could break their fast with dignity and comfort.

During the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims in hospital face the challenge of fasting from dawn until sunset, while also balancing the demanding environment of healthcare work. Hospital Iftars aims not only to support the physical wellbeing of those fasting but also to foster a sense of community, breaking down isolation and bringing people together.

James Mawrey, Chief People Officer and Deputy Chief Executive at Bolton NHS Foundation Trust, said:

We were really pleased to support Hospital Iftars for another year, as we recognise how critical it is for both staff and visitors to have access to well-balanced meals at iftar, helping to maintain energy and focus. This allows our staff to continue providing excellent care for our patients and for visitors to focus on their family members.

“It was also wonderful to see the sense of community created each evening, bringing people together in a safe space to connect with other staff, visitors, and the wider community.

Each meal is thoughtfully prepared to be easily digestible after a long day of fasting, offering both nourishment and a sense of comfort. Through this initiative, Hospital Iftars helps sustain not only the body but also the spirit, creating a sense of unity, care, and connection within the hospital community.

Aisha Ahmed, a Domestic Cleaner for iFM Bolton, said:

I work in the evenings and cannot open iftar with my husband so it’s nice that you have created a way to feed people that are working. You feel quite alone when you’re opening your fast by yourself without family but it’s very reassuring that others that are Muslim are also working in the hospital and experiencing the same as me. What you are doing here is very helpful and brings a community of people together.

Visitors were also able to join the iftars each evening. Rabia said:

My Father is very sick in hospital, what I found in my darkest moments was a supportive community in our time of need. What an unbelievable blessing this was – facilitated by a selfless team of volunteers. I hope to return this immense gratitude I feel next Ramadan by volunteering – God willing. Thank you Hospital Iftars Team.

Hospital Iftars would not be possible without the generosity of donors and the dedication of volunteers.

Juveria, a volunteer for Hospital Iftars, said:

Helping distribute Iftar meals has been such a rewarding experience. The most rewarding part has been witnessing the direct impact of our efforts, whether it’s a heartfelt thank you from a visitor who can now focus on being with their family member or a grateful smile from a tired staff member. I feel honoured to be part of this initiative.