9th December 2011

About the Switchover

What is the digital switchover?

Switchover is the process of converting the UK’s terrestrial television system to digital. Between now and 2012, analogue channels broadcast from more than a thousand transmitter sites are being switched off region by region and replaced with Freeview digital TV and radio services.

Why is it happening?

Households in many parts of the UK are currently unable to receive Freeview services. Switching off the existing analogue broadcasting system will create the capacity necessary to extend coverage to the whole country. Broadcasting in digital format is also a more efficient way to transmit television signals and will free up airwaves for new services such as ultra-fast wireless broadband and mobile television.

When is switchover happening?

The UK’s first switchover took place in Copeland, Cumbria (including the town of Whitehaven) in November 2007. The main programme began in 2008, with Border becoming the first fully digital TV region in July 2009. Wales, Scotland and the Channel Islands have now completed switchover, along with the West Country, West, Granada, Yorkshire, Central and Anglia TV regions in England. The process will continue in each TV region until 2012/

Find out about the switchover in the Meridian TV region.

What happens at switchover and what do viewers need to do?

Switchover is a two-stage process. At stage one, BBC Two will cease broadcasting in analogue and BBC digital channels will become available for the first time to viewers watching local ‘relay’ transmitters. At stage two, the remaining analogue channels will be permanently switched off and replaced with additional digital services. All Freeview, BT Vision and Top Up TV viewers will need to retune their equipment at both stages of switchover.

Most people have already converted their main TV to digital. Viewers must ensure that their TVs are capable of receiving a digital signal in order to continue receiving television services after switchover. Virtually any TV, even black and white ones, can be converted with a digital box. Anyone buying new TV equipment should look for the ‘digital tick’ logo (above) which identifies equipment designed to work through switchover.

What help is available?

There is a range of switchover help available. Digital UK co-ordinates public information campaigns in each region during the lead up to switchover. It also operates an advice line (08456 50 50 50), website (Digital UK) and postcode checker which informs viewers about the digital television services available in their area.

Digital UK also works with a range of organisations which provide information about digital television to consumers. They include broadcasters, digital platform operators, retailers and local authorities. In addition, it has formed a partnership with a consortium of national charities, including Age UK, which will provide information and advice to people who might need some extra help.

The Switchover Help Scheme has been established by the BBC to offer practical assistance at the time of switchover to approximately seven million households. You are eligible for the scheme if you:

• are aged 75 years or over; or
• have lived in a care home for six months or more; or
• get (or could get) certain disability benefits, or
• are registered blind or partially sighted

Eligible households will be offered the following:

• equipment to convert one television set
• installation and demonstration of equipment
• follow-up support

There will be a fee of £40 for the help. For eligible claimants who also receive income support, job seeker’s allowance or pension credit, the help will be provided free.

For more information about the Switchover Help Scheme.

More Information

To find out more information about the UK Digital Switchover, visit the Digital UK website.