Comments on: Three Ways Over 75s Can Avoid Paying for a TV Licence

By: Nick

Nick — Sat, 15 Aug 2020 07:11:30 +0000

Thanks, Caz. Yes, all very good points. I agree, a discounted rate for over 75s might have been more acceptable. I think many people were shocked to discover that the BBC were going to impose the full £157.50 charge on some of the most vulnerable people in our society.

By: Invisibly Me

Invisibly Me — Fri, 14 Aug 2020 22:13:01 +0000

Some good suggestions, Nick. I remember signing the petition with Age UK probably last year to try to stop the BBC from doing this. It’s a dirty thing to do, especially after the government deal that necessitated free licences for the over 75s. We all know there’s a lot of waste at the BBC, much like there is in government and many big companies, not to mention ridiculous fees for the actors and presenters. Surely they could save money, keep the free licences, and improve their reputation. But no, and they won’t be able to improve their bad rep anytime soon I don’ t think. I wondered why they couldn’t just make cuts elsewhere and say “Okay guys, we can’t give it you totally free, but how about just £5 a year?”. They’d still get a good whack of money, but without putting the elderly population either into greater isolation without a TV or having to choose between Eastenders or the heating. xx

By: Nick

Nick — Thu, 13 Aug 2020 21:19:34 +0000

In reply to Nayna Kanabar. Thanks, Nayna. Yes. it is shocking that many sick and elderly people find themselves in this situation. For many who are still shielding from the virus, TV is their only source of company from one day to the next. Both the government and the BBC should be ashamed that it has come to this.

By: Nayna Kanabar

Nayna Kanabar — Thu, 13 Aug 2020 19:15:55 +0000

Its a terrible decision and I feel so sorry for the people who can’t afford the licence. for many tv is the only entertainment they get.

By: Nick

Nick — Tue, 11 Aug 2020 17:08:32 +0000

In reply to Telina. Thanks for the comment. Yes, it really is the worst possible timing for many old people. If nothing else, I hope it results in many more claiming the pension credit to which they are entitled.

By: Nick

Nick — Tue, 11 Aug 2020 17:06:04 +0000

In reply to Beautyqueenuk. Thanks :-) Yes, you can save a lot of money this way if you don't mind viewing in black and white!

By: Beautyqueenuk

Beautyqueenuk — Tue, 11 Aug 2020 15:56:28 +0000

Oooh good shout about the black and white tv license, I had no idea you could still get them!

By: Telina

Telina — Tue, 11 Aug 2020 15:19:40 +0000

It’s terrible that they’ve made this decision, especially during the times we’re in. Great post – you’ve shared some really good methods to help those affected by this.