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

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