MORE than 12,000 people have already backed a growing campaign demanding the Government restore free TV licences for all pensioners, as anger mounts over the rising cost of living facing older Britons.
The petition, which is gathering momentum online, calls for every pensioner above the official retirement age to automatically receive a state-funded TV licence regardless of income.
Campaigners say many elderly people are now being forced to choose between heating, food and everyday essentials while still being expected to pay the annual TV licence fee.
“For thousands of elderly people living alone, television is not a luxury - it’s companionship, comfort and a lifeline to the outside world,” supporters of the campaign say.
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The petition’s creator, Michael Thompson, said many pensioners are “living on the breadline” and rely heavily on television for company and connection.
“With the cost of food soaring and utility bills ever higher, there is a desperate need to provide all pensioners with at least this concession,” the petition states.
The petition remains open for signatures until July 21, 2026.
Supporters argue that many pensioners feel abandoned despite having worked, paid taxes and raised families for decades.
“Many older people feel forgotten despite contributing to society for most of their lives,” campaigners say.
“It feels deeply unfair that pensioners struggling to pay for heating and food are still expected to cover the cost of a TV licence.”
Under current rules, free TV licences are only available to households where someone over State Pension age receives Pension Credit — a means-tested benefit many eligible pensioners never claim.
Campaigners say this leaves millions of older people paying the licence fee even while facing severe financial pressure.
“Many elderly people who qualify for Pension Credit never claim it, meaning they miss out on support they desperately need,” supporters warn.
The petition also criticises what it describes as “huge salaries” paid to some media personalities while pensioners struggle to cope with rising bills.
“Critics say it is wrong that pensioners on modest incomes must continue paying the licence fee while some broadcasters and presenters receive multi-million-pound salaries.”
The issue remains politically sensitive after universal free TV licences for the over-75s were scrapped, a decision that sparked widespread backlash among pensioners and campaign groups.
“The growing support for the petition highlights the strength of feeling surrounding pensioner benefits and rising living costs,” supporters say.
“Older people are being squeezed from every direction by soaring food prices, rising energy bills and increasing household costs.”
Supporters argue that restoring free TV licences would be a small but meaningful way to ease pressure on vulnerable households and tackle loneliness among older people.
“With more pensioners struggling financially, pressure on ministers is only likely to intensify.”
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Who gets a free TV licence?
There are various TV licence discounts and concessions, and which one you might be eligible for depends on your circumstances.
- If you're 75 or over and you receive Pension Credit, you can claim a free TV licence. It'll cover you and anyone you live with, regardless of their age.
- If you're blind or you have a severe sight impairment, you can claim a 50% discount on your licence. If you live with anyone else, the licence needs to be in your name in order for your household to get the discount.
- If you live in a care home or sheltered housing, you might be eligible for an Accommodation for Residential Care (ARC) licence, which costs £7.50. You'll only need a licence if you watch TV in your own separate accommodation, rather than in a communal space such as a residents' lounge. Speak to your warden or administrator to find out whether your care home or sheltered housing qualifies for this type of licence.
The campaign has already passed the 10,000-signature threshold, meaning the Government must now issue an official response.
If the petition reaches 100,000 signatures before it closes on 21 July 2026, it could be considered for debate in Parliament.
Should anyone have to pay a TV licence fee? Tell us in the comments below.
