In this episode, Lorraine Briffitt, CEO of Connect Reading, shares the story behind the organisation's mission to connect various sectors in Reading for mutual benefit.
Lorraine discusses how Connect Reading has grown to facilitate collaboration between businesses, charities, the education sector, and public sector services, to foster a better local community, economy, and environment.
The episode also highlights Connect Reading's initiatives, including the Summer Giving Appeal and the development of a quality standard. As well as the challenges faced by local businesses, Connect Reading's collaborative ethos, and future goals for expansion.
Lorraine also reflects on the importance of collaboration, the evolution of Reading, and the organisation's role in supporting the local community.
TIME CODES
00:00 Greeting
00:28 Introduction to Connect Reading
01:27 How Lorraine got involved with Connect Reading
02:08 What is Lorraine's mission for Connect Reading
03:10 How has Reading changed over the last 20 years
04:17 What Lorraine's learned from her leadership roles
06:17 Examples of Connect Reading Projects
08:45 The challenges facing local businesses
10:54 Suggestions for how people can minimise these challenges
12:15 Collaborative opportunities for hospitality
13:12 How Connect Reading measures success
15:23 How Connect Reading helps local businesses
18:28 How Connect Reading is financed
20:40 Connect Reading's plans for the future
22:26 Final thoughts for listeners
