Nottingham Forest Community Trust, the Trent Bridge Community Trust and Notts County Foundation are reaffirming their commitment to supporting Muslim communities and supporters ahead of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, which begins on 28th February 2025.
Ramadan is a time of reflection, spiritual growth, and community, and it is vital that clubs and organisations show solidarity with those observing the month.
By recognising Ramadan and actively supporting local initiatives, these three Nottinghamshire sporting charities are committed to demonstrating the power of unity, inclusion, and connection within the city and county.
Each of the clubs’ charitable arms will mark Ramadan in their own way, ensuring meaningful engagement with the communities they serve.
Trent Bridge Community Trust – Iftar at Trent Bridge: A celebration of unity, faith, and giving back
On Wednesday, 19th March at 5PM, Trent Bridge will host a community Iftar in collaboration with Love Mercy Hope, an organisation supporting those in need.
This gathering offers an opportunity to come together, share a meal, and recognise the values of Ramadan—unity, generosity, and support for others. It also reflects the role of sport in bringing people from all backgrounds together.
In Islam, the act of feeding others—especially those less fortunate—is considered one of the most noble acts.
By bringing people together at Trent Bridge, the event honours the spirit of Ramadan and the role of sport in promoting inclusivity and community support.
Sport, much like faith, encourages resilience, teamwork, and looking out for others—principles at the heart of this Iftar gathering.
Trent Bridge’s partnership with Love Mercy Hope emphasises the importance of community and solidarity. Trent Bridge Community Trust look forward to welcoming everyone for an evening of reflection and togetherness.
Ian Dipaolo, Deputy Head of Community & Development shared: "Trent Bridge has long been a place where communities come together, and the Muslim community is an integral part of that legacy.
“From passionate fans in the stands to talented Muslim players on the field, the presence of the Muslim community in cricket continues to grow.
“Hosting Iftar at this iconic ground is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of unity, faith, and the power of sport to bring people together.
“Just as cricket builds teamwork, resilience, and shared goals, Iftar at Trent Bridge symbolises inclusivity, respect, and the spirit of togetherness.
“In sport, as in life, the strongest teams are built on understanding and support—values that Ramadan beautifully reinforces."
Nottingham Forest Community Trust – Solidarity Fast and Open Iftar at The City Ground
Nottingham Forest Community Trust will be hosting an Open Iftar on 4th March in partnership with Himmah, Nottingham’s largest independent food bank and social support charity.
Himmah has worked closely with Nottingham Forest for several years, most recently during the Christmas period, when over four tonnes of essential items were donated by Forest fans for distribution to individuals and families in need.
This initiative invites participants to stand together against food poverty and demonstrate a commitment to a more equitable world.
Food poverty is a harsh reality for many in our communities. By participating in the Solidarity Fast, individuals will experience a day of fasting to empathise with those who struggle with hunger daily.
More than just an act of solidarity, this event serves as a call to action—raising funds and awareness to support vital food aid initiatives.
The evening will include insightful speeches from representatives of Nottingham Forest Community Trust, Nottingham Forest Football Club, and Himmah’s Director.
At approximately 17:50, participants will come together for Iftar, breaking their fast alongside Nottingham Forest staff and fellow attendees and members of the community.
This shared meal will serve as a powerful symbol of unity and compassion, reinforcing the values of community and togetherness.
Calum Osborne, CEO of Nottingham Forest Community Trust, said: "Football, cricket and sport have the unique ability to bring people together, and it’s important that we use our platform to nurture understanding, inclusion, and community spirit.
“Supporting our Muslim supporters and local communities during Ramadan is just one way we can demonstrate that commitment."
Notts County Foundation – Open Iftar at Meadow Lane
Notts County Foundation will host an Iftar event on Tuesday, 18th March, from 5pm at Meadow Lane Stadium in partnership with Muslim Hands.
The evening will begin pitch-side with speeches, before moving into the stadium’s suites, where guests will break their fast together.
Following the breaking of fast, there will be prayers and a shared meal, creating an opportunity for people from different backgrounds to connect in a spirit of unity and reflection.
The event is designed to bring the community together, developing meaningful connections, and strengthen bonds between attendees.
It will also serve as a celebration of diversity and cultural richness, helping to build greater understanding between different groups.
Most importantly, the evening reaffirms Notts County Foundation’s commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusivity—both on and off the pitch.
Sam Crawford, Chief Financial Officer at Notts County Foundation said: “We’re delighted to be working with our sporting partners in Nottingham to help promote inclusion and offer a warm welcome to local Muslim communities during the period of Ramadan.
“We are incredibly proud of the diversity we have within our local communities and are determined to do all we can to help ensure that football, and sport more broadly, are accessible and relevant to all those people who make up our amazing city.”