A new petition is calling on the UK Government to provide free TV licences to all pensioners.
The online petition argues that the current system – which only provides free licences to those over 75 who receive Pension Credit – should be expanded to include all people of state pension age – currently 66.
The campaign, created by Michael Thompson, comes as pensioners face mounting pressure from the cost of living crisis, with the current TV licence fee standing at £169.50 per year.
Thompson’s petition seeks to extend the benefit to all pensioners, regardless of whether they receive Pension Credit, marking a significant proposed change to the existing concession scheme.
The petition states: “We want the Government to fund free TV licences for existing pensioners and those who reach the official retirement age. When people reach retirement age, we think they should receive a state-financed free TV licence.
“Many pensioners live on the breadline with only the TV for company. With the cost of food soaring and utility bills ever higher, we feel there is a desperate need to provide all pensioners with at least this concession.”
The petition creator also criticises the disparity between pensioners’ circumstances and how much the BBC spends.
He added: “We feel it is a double outrage that those who have given their all to this country in taxes and raising children have to pay a TV licence fee and are only exempt if they receive means-tested Pension Credit. Meanwhile, some media figures draw huge salaries.”
Thee campaign emphasises the vital role television plays in the lives of elderly citizens, particularly as they navigate rising living costs.
Under current rules, only those aged 75 or over who receive Pension Credit are eligible for a free TV licence for their main residence.
Since July, an additional 42,500 pensioners have started receiving Pension Credit, making them eligible for both the Winter Fuel Payment and a free TV licence.
Those applying for their first free TV licence while on Pension Credit can call 0300 790 6117 to request an application form.
The concession also covers other household members living at the same address.
Some additional discounts are available for specific groups, including a 5 per cent reduction for those registered as blind or severely sight impaired.
Residents in nursing homes, residential care, or sheltered accommodation can access a reduced rate of £7.50 per room, flat or bungalow.
Those who previously received a free licence but are no longer eligible must now set up payment through their TV licensing account.
The petition requires 10,000 signatures to receive a formal response from the UK Government. If it reaches 100,000 signatures, it will be considered by the Petitions Committee for debate in Parliament.
The deadline for signing Thompson’s petition is 26 May 2025.
A separate petition calling for the complete abolition of the TV licence fee is also currently active on the Government’s petitions website. Created by Alastair Horton, this alternative petition has already gathered more than 7,000 signatures.
This second petition argues that “the BBC is losing its popularity and we shouldn’t be forced to fund it.”
Both petitions can be found on the UK Government’s petitions-parliament website, where members of the public can show their support.