Show Films and TV Programmes Legally
Comfort and Compliance in Care Homes
One of the most important parts of a care home is the sense of community. Residents need to engage with one another and socialise regularly to feel comfortable and safe. And one of the best ways to foster that sense of community is by screening films and TV programmes.
Communal entertainment, including movie afternoons and nights, is the perfect way to have residents gather and chat with one another. However, there’s one more thing you’ll need before starting up a movie night – a public performance licence.
Why Public Performance Licences are Required
Under the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988, permission is needed from the relevant copyright holders to show the television programmes and films in public places. You can learn more about public performance licenses, read the UK Government guidance on Section 72 of the Copyright Act.
What Counts as a Public Screening?
Playing content in group settings like a scheduled screening of a popular TV show or film will likely require a licence according to copyright law. However, residents watching their TVs in their own rooms are almost always exempt. That means while residents don’t need to worry about getting a licence, the care home itself most likely needs one.
MPLC Blanket Licence
For nearly 40 years, we’ve built trusted partnerships with leading film studios and producers around the world. These relationships allow us to offer our clients access to tens of thousands of titles through a single, affordable licence.
The MPLC Blanket Licence is easy to obtain and licensees don’t need to report each individual title they screen so it makes it even easier to stay protected whilst not needing to keep records about the titles they show.
We also regularly work with governmental and organisational bodies to ensure the highest standards. We’re an Independent Management Entity, which grants rights on behalf of more than one rightsholder. You can learn more about this here Licensing bodies and collective management organisations – GOV.UK and you can read more about what Care England has to say here.
Care Home Entertainment Made Easy
Make sure your care home is legally compliant and your residents can enjoy communal entertainment by getting started today. Call 01323 356 100 or apply for your MPLC Blanket Licence online.