Research into the experiences of Baptist women ministers uncovered a need for male ministers to challenge ‘banter’ about women or black and brown people which may undermine them.

It also included the hope that no one training for ministry should ever have to visit a food bank again.

The three-year research project, called Project Violet, released its findings this week.

The findings also revealed that women objected to being questioned about their children, spouses and divorce at interview in a way men were not.

Project Violet is named after Violet Hedger, the first Baptist woman to be college trained for ordination, in 1919.

The research findings were discussed by project leads, co-researchers, and theological accompaniers at Launde Abbey for a 24-hour conference last month.

They include pleas to include more women authors in student reading lists, better representation, and for Baptist Associations to appoint a paid women’s ministry advisor to support recruitment and the retention of women.

Project co-leader Jane Day said: “I am grateful for the way in which women ministers have engaged with Project Violet and the clearer understanding of women’s experience of ministry that has emerged.

“I look forward to engaging with the Baptist community over the next five months as they consider their commitments to action.”

Baptists are being invited to plan opportunities to discuss and respond to the findings between now and September. The Baptist Union Council will consider a report of agreed actions in October.

All the research and interviews with most of the women are available on the project website.