The Filmbankmedia Blanket Licence is an annual film licence that allows organisations such as hotels, student accommodation, retailers, or fitness centres to legally show films and TV programmes aired on broadcast television channels and associated streaming platforms. It also covers content screened for background or ambient screening. It provides a simple, cost-effective way to ensure compliance with UK copyright law.

Any business or organisation showing content for background or ambient screenings, or if films and TV programmes can be viewed by employees or customers on work devices, or around the premises (e.g., lounges, common rooms, or receptions), UK copyright law (Section 72 of the Copyright, Designs & Patents Act 1988) requires for this organisation to hold the correct licence.

This is separate from domestic and commercial TV Licences, and from rights managed by music licensing bodies such as PRS for Music and PPL.

For more details on Changes to Section 72: Public showing or playing of broadcasts, visit gov.uk.

The Filmbankmedia Blanket Licence tariffs depend on your sector or your audience. You can view the full tariffs here or contact us for a quote

Showing films without the correct licence is a breach of UK copyright law. This may result in legal action and financial penalties for your organisation. Obtaining the correct licence ensures compliance.

You can apply for a Filmbankmedia Blanket Licence by completing our online form.

The Filmbankmedia Blanket Licence covers you to screen films and TV shows from our participating studios, including Hollywood majors and independents, which you can view on this page.

That includes thousands of titles across genres, from blockbuster releases to classics and family favourites.

The licence does not permit scheduled, advertised screenings or charging admission fees. For one-off, advertised film events, you would need a Single Title Screening Licence (STSL). Learn more about the STSL.

You can show content in communal areas of your premises, such as showrooms, recreation rooms, reception areas, or any shared space. The Filmbankmedia Blanket Licence also covers content shown on company-issued devices, including laptops and TV sets.

With the Filmbankmedia Blanket Licence, you are covered to show films and TV programmes via legally obtained DVDs and Blu-rays or aired on free-to-air UK TV channels and their catch-up platforms.

The Filmbankmedia Blanket Licence covers the catch-up streaming platforms from the free-to-air UK broadcasters. However, it does not cover commercial streaming platforms.

Please get in touch at blanket@filmbankmedia.com or call +44 (0)203 866 6500.

For workplaces and corporate organisations, the licence runs from the 1st of June until 31st of May the following year. For everyone else, the licence runs from the 1st of May until the 30th of April the following year.

Please get in touch at blanket@filmbankmedia.com or call +44 (0)203 866 6500.