ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Public service broadcasting in the United Kingdom

Okay kiddo, do you know what television is? Great! So, in the United Kingdom, there are some TV channels that are owned by the government. They make sure that these channels show programs that everyone can watch and enjoy - like news, educational shows, and fun programs for children.

These channels are called public service broadcasting channels. They are made to serve the public - that means everyone - and they are not just there to make money by showing advertisements.

In the UK, the channels that are public service broadcasting channels are called the BBC, ITV, Channel 4, and Channel 5. The BBC is the biggest one and it has lots of different channels for all ages.

The government makes sure that these channels get enough money to keep making great shows for us to watch. They do this by taking some money from everyone's TV license each year. That way, we can all enjoy some TV shows that are really good for us!