Digital switchover

Help and information about switchover and the Switchover Help Scheme will be available at both stages of switchover from roadshows and advice points.

The digital TV switchover is a two-stage process:

At stage one (10 October), analogue BBC Two is switched off. BBC Freeview channels are then boosted in power and become available from local relay transmitters for the first time.

At stage two (24 October), all remaining analogue services are switched off. More Freeview channels become available from relay transmitters.

Viewers with digital TVs or Freeview, Top Up TV or BT Vision boxes will need to retune their equipment at both stages of switchover. Guidance on retuning is available from our website and advice line.

After switchover, most viewers will be able to get TG4, RTÉ One and RTÉ Two via an aerial, either from Freeview in Northern Ireland (HD equipment required) or via Saorview – the Republic of Ireland digital TV service. Technical differences between Freeview and Saorview may affect the equipment you need and the channels you can receive and it’s recommended you discuss your options with a retailer before purchasing any new equipment.

Viewers can use the coverage checker at digitaluk.co.uk to check channel availability in their area. For more information on Saorview, visit saorview.ie or call 0844 8008 752.

There is still time for eligible older and disabled people to apply to the Switchover Help Scheme for practical help converting one TV set to digital. The Help Scheme has written to everyone who is eligible but people must respond to get help.

The Help Scheme (www.helpscheme.co.uk) is run by the BBC under an agreement with the UK Government. For £40 (or free for those on certain income-related benefits) all eligible people will be offered easy to use equipment, installation and aftercare.

For the same price of £40 or free, eligible people in Northern Ireland can also choose a Freeview HD box which can receive TG4, RTÉ One and RTÉ Two, subject to coverage in their area. That option also includes installation and aftercare.