Unpaid carers from South Asian communities were guests at a One Vision event at the Stanborough Park Centre in Watford. The event took place at 6:30 pm on Saturday 16 March, to support carers fasting during Ramadan.
During the event, the chief guest speaker highlighted the challenges faced by unpaid carers who fast during Ramadan. Dr Hina Shahid, chairperson of the Muslim Doctors Association in the UK, provided her expertise and empathy to the discussion. Ramadan is a time of spiritual reflection and devotion for Muslims worldwide, but for unpaid carers, it can present unique challenges as they selflessly tend to the needs of their loved ones. Dr Shahid's insights into the intersection of faith and caregiving were invaluable for carers who want to navigate their religious obligations while fulfilling their caregiving responsibilities and caring for their health.
Dr Petras Bahadur, Director of the Global Centre for Adventist Muslim Relations at the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, contributed to the conversation on the relationship between Christians and Muslims. He emphasised the importance of unity and mutual understanding among different religious communities. Dr Bahadur underlines the shared values of compassion and service that go beyond religious boundaries by fostering dialogue and a spirit of cooperation.
Enoch Kanagaraj, founder and CEO of One Vision, added a layer of celebration and solidarity to the event: "We are delighted that One Vision brings unpaid carers from Muslim communities together to support health and wellbeing, fostering a sense of community and shared responsibility. Through their initiatives, including interfaith dialogues, One Vision exemplifies the spirit of unity and collaboration, recognising that caring for others transcends religious and cultural differences."
Dr Shahid, Dr Bahadur, and Enoch Kanagaraj's perspectives were a source of inspiration and upliftment for unpaid carers. Their insights reaffirm the importance of the carers' contributions and the support available within their communities.
The Unpaid Carers Project, aimed at providing essential support and resources to those tirelessly caring for their loved ones from ethnic minorities in Hertfordshire, has received funding and support from Hertfordshire County Council. This partnership underscores the council's commitment to enhancing the wellbeing of its residents by recognising and supporting the needs of unpaid carers within the community. With the support of Hertfordshire County Council, the Unpaid Carers Project can continue its vital work, ensuring that carers receive the assistance and recognition they deserve. In contrast, they selflessly dedicate themselves to the care of others.