TV License Process

We recognise the importance of accessing a television to help improve English and to provide entertainment for the family. 

In the UK, you need a TV Licence to watch or record programmes on a TV, computer or other device as they’re broadcast, and to watch on-demand BBC programmes on iPlayer.

RWNS volunteers can help you apply for a TV licence but please be advised that health, housing, employment and money matters take priority. 

If you’re 75 or over and you get Pension Credit, you can get a free TV licence.

A TV Licence costs £169.50. Most people spread the cost by paying by Direct Debit, but you can also pay all in one go. Please consider if this is a good use of your money, if you are on a low income. 

Ways To Pay For A TV Licence – TV Licensing ™

Please ensure you have a TV licence if you are watching live television or the BBC. You can be fined up to £1,000 plus court costs for watching live television without a TV licence. 

You do not need a TV Licence to watch:

• streaming services like Netflix and Disney Plus
• on-demand TV through services like All 4 and Amazon Prime Video
• videos on websites like YouTube
• videos or DVDs

We at RWNS are often donated televisions. We will test them to ensure they are safe to use. They are unlikely to be SMART so will require additional hardware to access streaming services or the internet or to watch DVDs.

You can put your name on a waiting list for a second hand donated television by telling Donna or Karen M.