LOCAL businesses and community groups connected at a ‘speed networking’ event in Bradford.

The Business in the Community event was held at City Hall as part of Responsible Business Week.

It was aimed at helping people get to know each other better, understand risks and issues, share ideas and see how they can create partnerships for people in Bradford.

Organiser Adele Dolby, Business in the Community business connector for Bradford, said: “The event was well-attended with 31 people attending from a mix of community groups and local businesses.

“Overall everyone said it was a successful event in a beautiful location. Business in the Community – Responsible Business Week started on April 24 and runs all week.

“Its aim is to make businesses do better and be better for the benefit of all. There is a genuine need for businesses across the UK to be accountable for the impact they have on society and Responsible Business Week is about showcasing companies that are having a positive impact on their local community, employees, environment and society.”

The event on Monday featured a presentation by International Mixed Ability Sports on the work they do and the success of the organisation, as well as a mindfulness session by Bernie Leonard of Sport Works Yorkshire.

They were followed by a one-hour speed networking session where guests were given ten minutes at five tables. The tables were led by Jan Winter of Canterbury Imagine, Chris Evans of Cycle-Re-Cycle, Graeme McLearie of Business in the Community, Volunteering Bradford’s Dave Forrest, and Steve Haines of Neighbourly.

Ms Dolby said: “The event was very informal, fun and informative and, from current evaluation surveys received, was a success.

“Thanks go to City Hall for the free hire of the Banqueting Hall, Dave Forrest from Volunteering Bradford for covering the costs of the refreshments, everyone who supported me by attending, Jenny and Charlotte Dolby for support, AV and photography on the day.

“I am going to arrange another networking event in September as people were asking me for another one.”

One attendee said: “It was great to meet people from different organisations.”

Another said: “I made lots of connections – too many to mention.”