Cultural and Spiritual Wellbeing

Our diverse workforce of over 85 nationalities enriches the outstanding care we provide, bringing a wealth of cultural and spiritual perspectives to SFT. Below, we celebrate and learn about some of these multicultural traditions and fostering inclusion and belonging.

Should you have any questions about cultural and spiritual wellbeing in the workplace, please email the Inclusion and Wellbeing Team on sft.inclusion.wellbeing@nhs.net

Islamophobia Awareness Month (November)

Islamophobia is escalating across the country, visible not only in rising hostility but in disturbing acts of violence. From far-right riots to arson attacks on mosques, recent events reflect a worrying trend. Home Office figures for the year ending March 2025 show that Muslims were the target in 44% of all religiously motivated hate crimes recorded by police, representing a 19% increase in offences compared with the previous year.

At SFT we work alongside colleagues of many faiths and beliefs, and religious hatred has no place here. We will challenge it and act when we see it. We want our Muslim colleagues to feel valued, welcome and that they belong. If you experience or witness anti-Muslim hate, please report it through our usual channels including our Freedom to Speak Up Guardian. Confidential support and safe reporting are also available from the British Muslim Trust across the UK.

Click here for information about Islamophobia, what it is, and its impact at work, schools, sports, society health and wellbeing.

Diwali the Festival of Light: A Time for Renewal, Reflection & Rejoicing

Diwali, meaning "rows of lighted lamps," is also known as the "festival of lights." This vibrant celebration illuminate houses, shops, and public places with countless small oil lamps called diyas. Celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains worldwide, Diwali is one of the most important holidays in the South Asian calendar. Diwali is based on the lunar calendar and in 2024, it falls on 1 November

Cultural and Spiritual Significance

Beyond its religious significance, Diwali also has cultural roots, symbolising new beginnings, the harvest season, and an opportunity to express gratitude for life's abundance.

While each religion has unique reasons for celebrating Diwali, the festival's central theme is universal: the triumph of good over evil, light over darkness, and knowledge over ignorance. It's a joyous occasion for families and communities to come together, strengthen bonds, and celebrate life's blessings.

Hindus celebrate Diwali to commemorate the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile. Lord Rama, a prince banished from his kingdom, defeated the demon king Ravana and rescued his wife Sita. Diwali symbolises Lord Rama's victory over evil and his triumphant homecoming.

Sikhs celebrate Diwali to mark the release of Guru Hargobind Ji, the sixth Sikh Guru, from imprisonment by the Mughal emperor Jahangir. Guru Hargobind Ji's return to Amritsar with 52 other released prisoners is known as Bandi Chhor Divas, celebrated on the same day as Diwali.

Jains celebrate Diwali to mark Mahavira's attainment of moksha (liberation). Mahavira, the founder of Jainism, was a spiritual leader who taught the path to liberation from suffering. Diwali is a celebration of his enlightenment and an occasion to reflect on his teachings.

Diwali Traditions

Diwali is a time for families and communities to come together. People decorate their homes with diyas and colourful lights, exchange gifts and sweets, enjoy festive meals, and watch dazzling fireworks displays. Some popular Diwali traditions include:

Lighting diyas: Diyas are small oil lamps that are lit outside homes and temples during Diwali.

Rangoli: People create beautiful and intricate patterns called Rangoli on the floor using coloured powders, rice, or flower petals.

Celebrating with family and friends: Diwali is a time for families and friends to come together.

Eating traditional sweet and savoury dishes 

Fireworks and Firecrackers: In many places, people celebrate Diwali by setting off fireworks and firecrackers

Holi: A Vibrant Celebration of Spring, Unity, and Triumph

Holi, the "festival of colours," is a jubilant celebration originating in India and Nepal, now embraced globally. It marks the arrival of spring, the triumph of good over evil, and the strengthening of community bonds.

The Essence of Holi:

Holi is more than just a colourful spectacle; it's a celebration of life, love, and togetherness. It's a time to let go of negativity, strengthen relationships, and embrace the joy of the moment. Its universal appeal lies in its ability to transcend differences and unite people in a spirit of shared celebration.

Historical and Mythological Roots:

• Ancient Origins: Holi's roots trace back to ancient India, mentioned in religious texts. It was initially associated with rituals for married women and the full moon.
• The Legend of Prahlad and Holika: A central story is that of Hiranyakashipu, a demon king, and his son Prahlad, a devotee of Lord Vishnu. Hiranyakashipu's sister, Holika, immune to fire, attempted to burn Prahlad. However, his devotion protected him, and Holika perished, symbolizing the victory of good over evil.~
  
  
• The Love of Radha and Krishna: Another significant legend involves the playful love of Radha and Krishna. Krishna, concerned about his dark complexion, playfully coloured Radha's face, sparking the tradition of throwing colours.
  
  
• Shiva and Kamadeva: In South India, Holi is connected to the story of Lord Shiva burning Kamadeva to ashes, symbolizing transformation and renewal.

Core Traditions and Celebrations:

• Holika Dahan (Bonfire): The festival begins with bonfires lit on the eve of Holi, symbolizing the burning of negativity, evil, and old grievances. People gather, sing, dance, and offer prayers.
  
  
• Playing with Colours: The following day, people joyously throw coloured powder (gulal) and water at each other. This playful activity breaks down social barriers, fostering unity and forgiveness.
  
  
• Regional Variations Across India:
  
  
• Northern India: Celebrations involve bonfires, music, dance, and vibrant colour play.
  
  
• Maharashtra (Rang Panchami): Emphasizes coloured powders, music, and traditional sweets. The "breaking of the pot" (dahi handi) is a unique tradition.
  
  
• Gujarat: Also features the "breaking of the pot" tradition.
  
  
• Bengal (Dol Jatra): Features processions with idols of Radha and Krishna, along with singing and dancing.
  
  
• South India: Celebrations may include the burning of Kamadeva's effigies.
  
  
• Hola Mohalla (Sikh Celebrations): Sikhs celebrate a day after Holi with martial arts displays, mock battles, and religious music, emphasizing courage and community.

Global Spread and Significance:

• Worldwide Celebrations: Holi is celebrated by Indian diaspora communities globally, including the United States, United Kingdom, Guyana, and South Africa.
  
  
• Cultural Adaptation: Celebrations adapt to local cultures, incorporating unique traditions and expressions.
  
  
• Symbolism:
  
  
• Colours: Represent various emotions and elements of nature (e.g., red for love, yellow for prosperity, blue for Krishna, green for new life).
  
  
• Unity and Forgiveness: Holi promotes social harmony, breaking down barriers and encouraging reconciliation.
  
  
• Spring and Renewal: The festival marks the arrival of spring, symbolizing new beginnings and rejuvenation.
  
  
• Harvest Festival: In some areas it is also celebrated as a harvest festival.
  
  

Guidance to support our staff during Ramadan

Ramadan is the holiest month in the Islamic calendar and is observed by Muslims worldwide. It lasts for a period of 29 or 30 days and culminates with the first day of Eid. This year, Ramadan is expected to begin on 28 February or 1 March 2025. Exact dates are subject to sightings of the moon. 

Traditionally, Ramadan is a time for communal prayer, spiritual reflection, giving to charity, and breaking the fast (Iftar) with extended family and friends. The holy month concludes with the community celebration of Eid-ul-Fitr.

Many NHS staff who are Muslim will participate in a daily period of fasting, starting at dawn and finishing at sunset over the month. This means abstaining from food, drink (including water) and smoking. While the fast is an important part of Ramadan, it is also a time of self-reflection, self-evaluation, increasing worship and charitable deeds.

Not all Muslims will observe the fast in Ramadan, either out of choice or because they are religiously exempt. Fasting is both a communal and individual experience and one that many Muslim staff and communities will look forward to.

Guidance for staff and line managers during Ramadan

To support and guide line managers and staff during Ramadan, please read the comprehensive guidance and resources produced by NHS Employers.

The Supporting Our Staff During Ramadan Webinar is a great resource to have a better understanding of Ramadan in the workplace plus perspectives of a Muslim employee and how to support our staff during Ramadan.

Further guidance on Ramadan

Several organisations have developed useful guidance to help both staff and managers during Ramadan, or can help give advice about how to support Muslim staff at work.

• Read the Ramadan Health Factsheet 2024 published by the Muslim Council of Great Britain.
• Access the British Islamic Medical Association Ramadan compendium.
• Find out about the work of the NHS Muslim Women's Network and how they support Muslim women. 
• Access Ramadan Top Tips for Employers published by Muslim Friendly Employers.
• Download the Ramadan and Eid Guidance published by the NHS Muslim Network.
• Access the BMJ visual summary about advising patients with existing conditions about fasting during Ramadan