Simple things you can do to help

Ramadan is a very important time for Muslims, but it can also have its challenges. It takes immense dedication and motivation, which means your friends may need some extra help and support during this time.

What is Ramadan?

From 17 Feb to 18/19 March, Muslims will pray, fast, and reflect. Ramadan is the ninth month of Hijri (Lunar calendar), and those observing this important time will fast during the day, meaning that they won't eat or drink between the hours of dawn and dusk. As it is one month, you can imagine this can be hard at times, so it's important to show support and understanding whilst they balance studying, sleeping, and their spiritual goals.

It's also important to note that those who mark Ramadan may eat and pray at different times each day depending on the sunrise and sunset times. As the month progresses, sunrise will get earlier and sunset will get later, making the fasting day slightly longer towards the end of the month.

Be flexible

When planning activities and social events, be mindful of fasting hours. Choose something other than going out for lunch or a coffee, go to the cinema instead or just take a nice, relaxing walk. Fasting will change a person's entire body clock, so it's important to be considerate, and your friends will appreciate the extra effort in supporting their new schedule.

Check in... How are they?

It's important to ask those observing Ramadan how they're doing during this time and what their experience with Ramadan has been like so far. Energy and productivity levels drop due to fasting, so offering to help with practical tasks, such as taking the bins out, could be exactly what they need right now. 

Just ask

Don't be afraid to ask your flatmates what they need; everyone experiences Ramadan differently. Some students may prefer to stay busy and distract themselves from the hunger, and some may prefer to have more downtime. There isn't one step-by-step guide to follow.

Accommodate meal times

You may find that your flatmates eat meals early in the morning (Suhoor) and in the evening after sunset (Iftar), which often means that they might be eating alone. By offering to join in during one of these meals, you can keep them company, and it also helps to create an inclusive environment.

Small acts like these can make your flat a welcoming space for everyone. If you're ever unsure how best to support them, simply ask what would help them most this month, and you can go from there.