BBC EXPLAINS WHY £5 NOTES ARE BEING SENT THROUGH PEOPLE'S LETTERBOXES

The BBC has explained why people in the UK have been receiving £5 notes through the post in the latest episode of its daytime talk show Morning Live. TV host Nick Stapleton outlined what exactly is happening and why to viewers.

Nick, of the BBC's award-winning Scam Interceptors, joined Morning Live in the studio today (February 12) to discuss the public's concerns about scams. One viewer, called Pauline, contacted the programme after receiving a letter asking her to complete a survey, which included a £5 note.

Presenter Gaby Roslin said: "Pauline has contacted us after unexpectedly receiving a letter, asking her to complete a survey which included a £5 note?" The scam and fraud defence expert replied: "Yeah, I was so fascinated. So fascinating with this one. Real money, actual five pounds and more importantly, a real thing."

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After looking into it, Nick confirmed that the letter was real and was sent by the National Centre for Social Research. He explained that the £5 was a way to motivate people to take part.

He continued: "So we looked into it. And it's a huge piece of research by something called the National Centre for Social Research. And it basically was just five pounds to say thank you for doing the survey." Concluding the segment, Nick said: "So not a scam."

Morning Live shared an image of the letter Pauline received, which is titled: "Living in the UK survey 2035-2026." It adds: "Your address has been selected to take part in an international study on what people think about various important issues affecting the UK.

"The questionnaire covers a wide range of topics, and no special knowledge is needed to answer any questions". Towards the end of the letter, it says: "Most people taking part in the study find it an interesting and enjoyable experience, and we hope that you will too... To thank you for your help, we have enclosed a small token of appreciation (£5)."

On the BBC website, it says measures were taken to ensure the letter was legitimate. This included checking the organisation's registration with Companies House, comparing the contact information with that on its official website, and contacting the company directly.

The National Centre for Social Research, also known as NatCen, is the biggest independent social research organisation in Britain that doesn't make a profit. It was established in 1969 and focuses on thorough research about social policies.

During his time on Morning Live today, Nick spoke about the most common red flags to watch out for when it comes to scams. He advised viewers to look out for warning signs such as poor spelling, urgent requests for personal information, or pressure to act quickly.

Regarding the letter, he said that if in doubt, contact the organisation directly using the details from its official website rather than those provided in the letter.

2026-02-12T14:43:45Z