Who Cares? Care and Support Practitioners in Muslim Contexts

The Muslims, Societies, and Cultures (MSC) research area at Al-Mahdi Institute is delighted to open registration for its upcoming conference: “Who Cares? Care and Support Practitioners in Muslim Contexts” on 27th - 28th April 2026.

This conference brings together a distinguished group of scholars and practitioners whose research engages with the evolving landscape of care within Muslim communities. While issues surrounding pastoral care, mental health, chaplaincy, and community wellbeing are increasingly visible in contemporary Muslim societies, the academic and professional study of Muslim care practices remains a developing field. This conference, therefore, aims to explore these questions through interdisciplinary perspectives, drawing particularly on sociological, theological, and practitioner-based approaches.

The themes encompassed by the conference reflect the diverse environments in which Muslim care practitioners operate today. These include the ethical and theological foundations of care in Islam; the integration of Islamic spirituality within psychotherapy and mental health practice; the emergence of Muslim chaplaincy as an institutional field; and the emotional and moral burdens experienced by those providing pastoral support. The programme also engages pressing contemporary concerns, including gendered leadership in care roles, the challenges faced by practitioners navigating questions of sexuality and identity, and emerging models for supporting youth wellbeing and community mental health.

As with previous academic events convened through this research area, the conference provides a unique platform for dialogue between scholars and practitioners working across different national and institutional contexts. By facilitating discussion between theologians, sociologists, mental health professionals, and chaplains, the gathering seeks to advance a deeper understanding of how care is conceptualised, practised, and negotiated in Muslim contexts today. In doing so, the conference aims to contribute both to ongoing academic scholarship and to the development of more responsive and reflective care practices within Muslim communities.

Tickets cost £35 per day or £60 for both days. Tickets include lunch and dinner for the chosen day(s).

Student tickets include a 20% discount on ticket prices. Please choose the correct ticket type at checkout.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Al-Mahdi Institute, Al-Mahdi Institute, Birmingham, United Kingdom

Concerts, fests, parties, meetups - all the happenings, one place.

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