Countdown to TV switchover

Digital UK, the independent body in charge of the process, is now launching the final stage of its information campaign. Large warning messages will be broadcast on analogue channels, reminding viewers to get ready for switchover. The Switchover Help Scheme is also urging any eligible older and disabled viewers yet to respond to let them know whether they want practical support to convert one TV set to digital, including a choice of equipment, installation and aftercare.1

The switchover will take place in two stages and will see Freeview coverage boosted to reach thousands of viewers who get their signal from local relay transmitters. At both stages, new and existing viewers with Freeview, BT Vision and Top Up TV will need to retune their TVs or digital boxes to pick up all the services available.

Stage one starts in the early hours of Wednesday 10 October. Analogue BBC Two will be permanently switched off and some Freeview digital channels, including BBC Two, become available for the first time to viewers served by relay transmitters.

Stage two starts in the early hours of Wednesday 24 October. The remaining analogue channels (BBC One, UTV, Channel 4 and Channel 5) will be permanently switched off. These services and a range of other Freeview TV, radio and text services become available to viewers served by relay transmitters.

Viewers can check their switchover date and options for getting digital TV by using the Digital UK postcode checker at digitaluk.co.uk or by ringing 08456 50 50 50. A list of advice points running during switchover is at digitaluk.co.uk/northernirelandadvicepoints