CICs can vary from small ‘kitchen table’ type organisations, to multi-million pound turnover organisations employing thousands of people. They can be set up as either a Company Limited by Guarantee or a Company Limited by Shares, and are often described as Mutual’s or Social Enterprises.
Central Government, Local Government and Charities are all using the CIC model to innovate their services, whilst a growing number of private sector companies are also converting. The model is progressively being used across the country and by all spheres of society.
The CIC legislation was introduced as a legal form under the Companies Act 2006 and subject to that Act and company law generally. CIC's are regulated by the Community Interest Company Regulator via an annual report, known as the CIC34, which is submitted to the Regulators office on an annual basis.
The Community Interest Company Regulator’s office is a part of Companies House and governed by The Department for Business, Innovation and Skills throughout England & Wales.