Facebook is the largest social media site, with more than two billion people using it every month. It enables users to upload and share information, text, photos and videos, send messages and much more. It provides access to a world-wide audience.
Facebook's reach
Functions
Facebook groups and pages
Many organisations use Facebook to support their marketing and communications.
Some use it like a website, or second website. They set up a bespoke page or group to provide general information and for people to access information, share their thoughts, experiences and stay connected.
Facebook pages can be liked and followed. Facebook groups can be joined and followed and have privacy settings that can be applied to make them private.
Some use it like a website, or second website. They set up a bespoke page or group to provide general information and for people to access information, share their thoughts, experiences and stay connected.
Facebook pages can be liked and followed. Facebook groups can be joined and followed and have privacy settings that can be applied to make them private.
Posting
Facebook users can post stories, posters, text, photos and videos to keep people up to date with what’s going on.
Live videos
Facebook allows users to live stream events, competitions, matches, meetings, interviews or just share thoughts. Live videos can be uploaded as a post once they’re finished.
Video chats
Facebook groups can create rooms to instantly connect people on video chat.
Instant messaging
Facebook has an instant messenger function which allows people to chat privately with each other.
Paid Facebook Ads
You can pay to use Facebook Ads to market your organisation and its activities to your target audience.
Fundraising
Facebook's fundraising tools enable individuals and organisations to raise funds and collect donations.
Personal fundraisers can be used to raise money for specified causes like projects, crisis relief, equipment, travel etc.
Non-profit fundraisers can be used to raise money for charitable causes and organisations.
Personal fundraisers can be used to raise money for specified causes like projects, crisis relief, equipment, travel etc.
Non-profit fundraisers can be used to raise money for charitable causes and organisations.
Getting set up
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Go to the Facebook website or download the Facebook app on your phone or device.
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Sign up using a mobile number or an email address.
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Once you've created and verified your account, create a page, group or just start posting.
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To create a page, you'll need to give it a name, select the category that best describes your organisation, and write a short bio about what your organisation does.
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To create a group, you’ll need to give it a group name and choose which privacy settings you would like to apply. You can then invite friends to join.
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Start posting!
Things to consider
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Decide whether a Facebook group or page is best for your organisation or make a decision to set up both! A page acts like a profile for your organisation that the public can interact with, whereas a group is more likely to encourage discussion and create an online community.
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Anyone can create a Facebook profile so consider customising your group's privacy options, adding membership questions (which act like a joining criteria) and rules. These can help you control who can see your posts, post on your page, and help people to understand the dos and don'ts.
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People can like, comment and share your posts so keep an eye on comments to make sure these stay appropriate and polite.
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There are lots of different settings and admin options on Facebook. Be sure to explore them and select what work best for your organisation.
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If you want to utilise any of Facebook’s fundraising features check the terms, fees and application processes that apply. Don’t forget to see if you can claim gift aid too.
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Facebook is mainly used by adults.
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You can link Instagram Business, WhatsApp Business and Facebook Page accounts.
Make your page personal. People want to get to know you and be able to relate to your organisation.