Community Comic Con CIC exists to support, promote and empower creatives, clubs and organisations within the Comic Con and wider pop-culture community. During the reporting period, the CIC successfully delivered its first free-to-attend Community Comic Con in Fleetwood, Lancashire. The event welcomed between 2,000 and 2,500 attendees and was delivered entirely by a team of 52 volunteers. The event provided a platform for artists, traders, cosplayers, makers, performers, podcasters, clubs and community organisations to showcase what they do to a large and diverse audience. We had 74 organisations and individuals involved, using us as a platform to showcase themselves. By removing financial barriers through free admission and free activities, the CIC ensured that individuals and families could participate regardless of their financial circumstances. The event featured a wide range of free activities (15 in total) including creative workshops, board gaming, retro gaming, competitions, live entertainment, educational experiences and opportunities for community engagement. These activities encouraged creativity, learning, social interaction and participation across all age groups. The CIC also supported 6 community groups, charities and clubs by providing opportunities to promote their work, recruit new members and engage directly with the public. This helped strengthen community connections and raise awareness of local initiatives. Beyond the event itself, the CIC continued to support creatives and community organisations through its social media platforms, podcast and online community groups. These platforms provided ongoing opportunities for individuals and organisations to showcase their work, share information and connect with wider audiences throughout the year. The CIC also supported initiatives designed to reduce social isolation and improve wellbeing. This included helping to establish and promote free community board gaming activities delivered in partnership with Thornton Cleveleys Board Games Club. These sessions provide welcoming and inclusive opportunities for people to meet others, develop friendships and build confidence through shared interests. Many individuals involved in Comic Con and pop-culture communities are neurodivergent or experience social isolation. By creating accessible, welcoming and judgement-free environments, the CIC has helped people find a sense of belonging, improve their confidence and develop meaningful social connections. The CIC's activities have benefited local residents, families, young people, volunteers, creatives, traders, performers, clubs, community organisations and visitors to the area. The event also generated positive economic impact by attracting visitors to Fleetwood and supporting small independent businesses operating within the creative and pop-culture sectors. The directors believe that the CIC has successfully fulfilled its community benefit objectives during the reporting period by delivering accessible community activities, supporting creatives and community groups, promoting inclusion and wellbeing and creating opportunities for people to connect through shared interests.

The CIC regularly engages with stakeholders including event attendees, volunteers, traders, performers, guests, community groups, clubs and partner organisations. Consultation takes place through social media engagement, online feedback, direct conversations at events, email correspondence and monthly committee meetings. Feedback received during the reporting period was used to inform future event planning, improve accessibility, develop new activities and identify further opportunities to support creatives, clubs and community organisations. The CIC remains committed to listening to stakeholders and using feedback to maximise its community impact.

No remuneration was received

No transfer of assets other than for full consideration