Why Digital TV?
The UK's analogue TV era will come to an end in 2012.
The last analogue TV signals will be switched off in Northern Ireland on 24 October 2012.
Announcing the end-date for analogue TV and switchover, David Scott, Digital UK Chief Executive, said: "The analogue era was a defining period for TV but the fully digital age will be even better, with a greater choice of channels for viewers everywhere. I'm looking forward to October next year when we will have brought the benefits of digital to every corner of the country."
The UK's switchover programme started in 2008. At its conclusion in 2012, inside the timetable set out by Government, more than 15 million new viewers will have been brought into coverage for Freeview services.
If you have questions about the switchover in your region, call the Digital UK Helpline on 0800 519 2021.
Regional Switchover
Digital switchover is yet to take place in the following regions:
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Meridian
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London
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Tyne Tees
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Northern Ireland
For dates of the transmitter switchover in your region visit the Digital UK website.
Assistance in Switching
RNIB has played a crucial role in the design of the Targeted Help Scheme that has been created by the government. The scheme will continue to help people who have not already switched to digital TV and are either:
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registered blind or partially sighted
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over 75 years
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in receipt of Attendance Allowance or Disability Living Allowance
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requiring assistance in the run-up to switchover in their region.
The Targeted Help Scheme will be free to eligible households. This includes those on Income Support, Job Seeker's Allowance or Pension Credit. Other households will be asked to make a contribution of around £40.
A few months prior to switchover in your region, the scheme will give you:
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the necessary equipment to convert one TV set
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help with installation, provided by a registered digital installer
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follow-up support if needed
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an option of a Smart Talk digital set top box that will speak the menus and guides to you.
The Smart Talk device will be the standard Helpscheme offering for registered blind and partially sighted people, at a cost of £40 or free of charge, depending on eligibility in regions still to switch over.
For further information about the help available visit the Helpscheme website or telephone 0800 519 2021.
Information Talks for Local Groups
RNIB is offering information talks to local groups around the UK to advise blind and partially sighted people about digital switchover and audio description. If you would be interested in a speaker attending your group then please email audiodescription@rnib.org.uk or telephone 0303 123 9999.
Audio Description
For information about audio description, a service that is available on digital television that can enhance viewing for blind and partially sighted viewers, visit our Audio Description on TV pages.
New Talking TV Boxes
There are quite a few talking TV devices available in the market today that have been designed and developed to provide full access to digital TV for blind and partially sighted people.
Further information
For further information about digital television and switchover please email audiodescription@rnib.org.uk or telephone 0303 123 9999.