Case Study:
Ramsbottom & Edenfield

Diocese of Manchester

The Ramsbottom and Edenfield Team Ministry serves a picturesque area in the Irwell Valley north of Bury, Lancashire, UK. Comprising four parishes and four distinct church buildings, the Team Ministry embraces a variety of traditions while working together to share the good news of Jesus Christ and demonstrate His love to all.

The Challenge:

Prior to the website’s creation, the RETM faced several challenges in reaching newcomers and growing fellowship:

• Geographic Dispersion: With four churches spread across different locations, it was difficult to provide consistent and accessible information to all parishioners and potential newcomers.
• Limited Communication Channels: Relying primarily on traditional methods like notice sheets and word-of-mouth hindered effective communication and engagement with a wider audience.
• Attracting Newcomers: In an increasingly secular society, the RETM needed a way to connect with those unfamiliar with the church and its offerings.
• Fostering a Sense of Community: Creating a sense of belonging and encouraging participation among members was crucial, especially in light of the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting social isolation.

What We Did / The Result:

The Ramsbottom and Edenfield Team Ministry Website was designed with the following key features to address the challenges and achieve the objectives outlined above:

• Clear and Accessible Information: The website provides comprehensive information about the Team Ministry, its history, values, and leadership. Visitors can easily find details about each church, including service times, locations, and contact information. It also includes essential information for newcomers, such as what to expect during services and how to get involved in the church community.
• Engaging Content: The website features a welcoming message from the Team Rector, Rev. Ian Fleming, which contributes to a warm and inclusive atmosphere for newcomers. The message emphasises the church’s core values and its commitment to creating a welcoming environment. The language is personal and inviting, encouraging visitors to explore the website and learn more about the RETM.
• User-Friendly Navigation: The website has a clean and intuitive design, making it easy for visitors to find the information they need. The menu bar is organised logically, and the homepage features clear calls to action.
• Community Focus: The website emphasises the importance of community and provides information about various groups and activities that members can participate in.
• Mobile Optimisation: Recognising that over 50% of website traffic comes from mobile devices, the RETM website prioritises mobile responsiveness. This ensures that visitors have a seamless browsing experience regardless of the device they use to access the site.
• Social Media Integration: The website integrates with the RETM’s social media channels, providing another avenue for communication and engagement. This helps to reach a wider audience and keep members informed about upcoming events and activities.
• Visual Branding: The website’s visual branding is consistent with the church’s overall identity. This includes using a consistent color scheme, fonts, and logo across all platforms. The RETM website effectively uses visual elements to create a welcoming and professional online presence.
• Clear Page Purpose: Each page on the website has a clear purpose and fulfill a specific need for visitors.
• Essential Website Features: The website incorporates features that enhance user experience and engagement.