Guide developed by the College of Policing and the National Association of Muslim Police
Ramadan guidance released to support police forces
Published on
News
2 mins read
New guidance about Ramadan will help forces to support Muslim officers and staff observing the Islamic holy month. It also makes recommendations for officers interacting with Muslim members of the public during this period.
Policing guidance for the Islamic month of Ramadan was developed by the College of Policing and the National Association of Muslim Police (NAMP).
The guidance provides:
- an overview of Ramadan and its significance for Muslims
- recommendations for looking after Muslims observing Ramadan who are in police custody
- advice on searches and warrants involving Muslims
- management considerations during Ramadan
- recommendations for engagement with Muslim communities, including specific advice for senior officers
Ramadan is a significant month in the Islamic calendar, marked by prayer, fasting and reflection.
NAMP’s aims are centred on supporting its members, local communities and policing. One of these aims is to promote understanding of Islam.
Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam, lasting 29-30 days. This Islamic month is based on the lunar calendar, which means it is approximately 10 days earlier each year.
NAMP and the College of Policing have worked together to produce this document providing workplace adjustments and operational guidance for police forces to consider during this holy month. This will help support Muslims within the police service as well as improving community relations.
Alexander Gent, NAMP Chair
Islam is the second largest religion in England and Wales and Muslims are ethnically diverse. Data has shown that Muslims or those perceived as Muslims have experienced the highest percentage of religious hate crime when compared to other religions.
Many of the Association of Muslim Police networks including our Muslim Network at the College of Policing have contributed to producing the guidance to provide forces with the knowledge and tools to support inclusion within the workplace and continue to strengthen our relationships with Muslim communities.
Ramadan is a good opportunity to engage with your Muslim networks and communities, develop your knowledge of Islam and show your support through getting involved in activities. For example, our network is holding an Iftar event and sponsored fasting.
Yasmin Parvez, Chair of the Muslim Network, College of Policing
