Why Digital TV?
The analogue signals that we have all received for TV will be gradually switched off around the country over the coming few years. Therefore every household will need to switchover to digital TV to continue watching.
If you have questions about the switchover in your region, call the Digital UK Helpline on 0800 519 2021.
Regional Switchover
By 2013, television services in the UK will be completely digital, transferring to the new system region by region.
The current regional TV switchover dates are:
• Borders: Completed
• West Country: Completed
• Wales: August 2009 - March 2010
• Granada: November 2009
• West: March 2010
• STV North: April 2010 - December 2010
• STV Central: October 2010 - June 2011
• Channel Islands: November 2010
• Central, Yorkshire, Anglia: 2011
• Meridian, London, Tyne Tees, Ulster: 2012.
For dates of your actual transmitter switchover within 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 help people who have not already switched to digital TV and are:
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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.
It 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
For further information about the help available visit the Digital UK Helpscheme website or telephone 0800 519 2021.
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.
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 broadcasting@rnib.org.uk or telephone 020 7391 2398.
W4B
W4B is a charity supporting those needing assistance with a TV or Radio. They aim to prevent isolation and loneliness by ensuring that those with issues associated with age, illness or disability, who may find it difficult to leave their homes, can benefit from the entertainment that a radio or TV can bring.
Consumer testing of digital TV
Ricability (Research Institute for Consumer Affairs) an independent research charity, has further detailed tests of some of the products that deliver audio description on their website.
Further information
For further information about digital television and switchover please email broadcasting@rnib.org.uk or telephone 020 7391 2398.