CRUSTACEAN COMPASSION MARKS 10 YEARS OF WELFARE WINS WITH CLAW-SOME CELEBRATION DAY

London, 10 June - Animal welfare charity Crustacean Compassion is marking a decade of campaigning for crabs, lobsters and prawns with a day of digital events celebrating major welfare milestones, while highlighting the work still needed to protect millions of decapod crustaceans from suffering.

Founded in 2016 after campaigners witnessed live crabs shrink-wrapped in plastic on sale in a London supermarket, Crustacean Compassion has helped drive significant progress in crustacean welfare over the last decade, including the legal recognition of decapod crustaceans as sentient animals in UK law in 2022.

To mark its 10th anniversary, the charity is inviting supporters, policymakers, scientists and members of the public to take part in CC Day 2026 on Wednesday 10 June. Celebrating a decade of decapod crustaceans with a packed programme of online events, expert discussions and interactive activities reflecting on a decade of progress and looking ahead to the future of crustacean welfare.

Ten years leading the way in decapod crustacean protection

“Over the last 10 years there have been some big wins for crustacean welfare, from their legal recognition as sentient animals in 2022, to the government’s recent admission that boiling alive is not acceptable,” said Dr Ben Sturgeon, Crustacean Compassion’s CEO. “However, despite the progress made, millions of crustaceans continue to experience poor welfare. CC Day is an opportunity to celebrate how far we've come, recognise the people who have driven change, and focus on what still needs to happen to ensure these remarkable animals are treated with the respect and care they deserve.”

Something for everyone on CC Day

A highlight of the day will be the flagship “Influence, Innovation & Impact” webinar, bringing together leading voices from science, policy, industry and media to reflect on the charity's achievements and discuss the next decade of crustacean welfare. Speakers include pioneering crustacean sentience researcher Dr Andrew Crump, aquaculture innovator Stefan Tijsen, respected veterinary leader and author Dr Sean Wensley, and TV presenter Wendy Turner‑Webster.

The celebration will also feature social media activities, a grand raffle, a live watch-along of the documentary Seantience, and opportunities for the public to put questions directly to welfare experts, filmmakers and members of the Crustacean Compassion team.

CC Day 2026 is the charity’s second annual event, and will highlight the journey so far, celebrating a decade of decapod crustaceans. Whatever you’re up to, there are plenty of opportunities to join in the fun:

• All day: Check out CC’s socials to hear fun facts about decapods, learn how to make crustacean-inspired crafts, find out how you can support the cause and more.
• 1pm: Tune in to a live webinar with experts from science, industry and show business.
• 7pm: Join the watch party for the fascinating documentary Seantience, then take part in a live Q&A with the special guests from the film itself.

For more information and to register for events, visit: https://www.crustaceancompassion.org/events/crustacean-compassion-day-2026