Surgeries need to prescribe TV licence

Tech-savvy GP surgeries across Ballymoney and Moyle who are prescribing live TV to ensure the public don't lose patience are urged to ensure their businesses are correctly licensed.

Wall-mounted TV screens are now part of the furniture for many surgeries hoping to null the boredom pain by keeping customers occupied and ensuring they don’t miss a favourite programme.

A TV Licence is required if anyone – customers or staff - watches or records TV programmes at the same time as they are shown on TV, whether on a TV, tablet, computer or any other type of equipment.

If the surgery provides a TV or other device for watching live TV and does not have a licence then the business risks prosecution and a fine of up to £1,000.

Customers watching live TV on their own devices when out and about can be reassured they are covered by their home licence.

Karen Grimason, TV Licensing spokesperson said: “With many reception areas mounting TV screens so customers don’t miss a minute of their best-loved TV shows, live TV is almost part of the furniture.

“But it’s important GP surgery owners and managers take a few moments to review and update their licensing requirements.

“Failing to do so could land the owner in court and facing a fine of up to £1,000.

“A TV Licence costs £145.50 and can be bought in minutes online at www.tvlicensing.co.uk/business.”

To help businesses and staff understand the legal implications of watching programmes live at work, TV Licensing has produced a downloadable “TV in the Workplace” guide.

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