DIY SOS fans launch petition to prevent the BBC programme from being cancelled: 'This is a step too far'
Over 40,000 people have signed itDIY SOS fans have rallied behind a petition with more than 40,000 signatures to save the BBC programme.
The Change.org appeal has passed 41,000 names as the broadcaster prepares to rest the series in 2027.
The decision to rest DIY SOS has prompted calls to protect its work with families facing difficult circumstances.
DIY SOS fans launch petition to save BBC show from being cancelled
The petition’s organiser says they contributed to the programme in 2025 and praises the impact of its community-led projects.
Their appeal focuses on the families helped by volunteers who donate their time, skills and resources.
The petition states: “We urge the BBC to reconsider any plans to cancel this essential programme.”
It argues that the programme offers more than entertainment, highlighting compassion and giving struggling households a fresh start.
The organiser wants the BBC to preserve those stories and the practical help that comes with them.
Over 400 people have also commented on the petition page, with one user writing: “This is such a feel good programme, it does a lot for people who are actually in need.”
“DIY SOS is one of the most heart-wrenching programmes on TV. I cannot believe the BBC is even thinking of taking it off. They have taken other greats off, but this is a step too far,” another shared.
“Please do not stop making this show, it has helped so many families and people over the years,” a third remarked.
Why DIY SOS is being rested in 2027
First broadcast in 1999, DIY SOS has spent 27 years bringing volunteers and tradespeople together to transform homes.
Its projects support families dealing with severe illness, disability, bereavement or building disasters.
But the BBC says financial pressures mean the programme will take a break after its current series concludes.
Crucially, the broadcaster insists it has not permanently cancelled DIY SOS. Instead, it has commissioned a spin-off from producers South Shore.
DIY SOS Rebuilt My Life will revisit families and renovation projects from the programme’s past, rather than follow new transformations.
The BBC said it would “expand the brand on the BBC in a more cost-effective way next year.”
The annual DIY SOS Children In Need special has also been rested. That edition typically involves a large charitable project supporting young people.
The changes come as the corporation seeks to save £500 million over the next three years.
Nick Knowles shares disappointment over DIY SOS pause
Presenter Nick Knowles has expressed disappointment about not filming next year in the format viewers know and love.
However, he also acknowledged the BBC’s financial constraints and the difficult decisions facing the broadcaster.
For Nick, the programme’s appeal comes back to the people involved.
He said: “It really is the best of Britain and we need to see more of it on telly.”
He also thanked the families, volunteers, production team and viewers who have supported DIY SOS over the years.
And he encouraged anyone who has yet to watch the series to give it a try.
This article was produced with the assistance of AI technology to synthesise source reporting and structured data. It has been reviewed, edited, and fact-checked by our human editorial team before publication.
