What does it really take to build a thriving community space — one that brings together people from every background, generation, and walk of life?

In this episode of Love Local, host Jennifer Cornish sits down with Janine from Educafe, a Community Interest Company that has grown from a small, council-commissioned idea into one of Newbury’s most impactful grassroots community projects.

Based at Newbury Library, Educafe now welcomes 150+ people every week, supporting refugees, asylum seekers, families, older residents, volunteers, and local organisations — all under one roof.

Janine shares:

• How Educafe began with a simple brief — and quickly outgrew expectations
• The realities of running a CIC and securing grant funding, including National Lottery support
• Why real-life photography and clear branding helped build trust and visibility
• The power of public spaces like libraries in strengthening communities
• How local businesses, volunteers, and residents play a vital role in sustainability
• Why consistency, visibility, and “showing up” matter more than perfection

🔗 Find out more about Educafe: https://www.educafeuk.co.uk

📍 Follow Educafe on Instagram: @educafeuk

For more on Jen and her work creating standout websites for local businesses, visit: ⁠https://www.jennifercornish.co.uk⁠

This podcast is recorded at and produced by Creative Content Studio https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk