Digital TV Switchover
Digital TV switchover is the biggest change in television since the introduction of colour. Are you ready for it?
In April 2012, the digital TV switchover will take place across London. If you are still watching analogue TV (five channels or fewer) on any of your sets, you need to convert them to digital or you will lose TV channels.
Almost everyone will be able to watch Freeview after the switchover, even homes currently out of coverage. Virtually any TV can be converted using a Freeview box, digital satellite service or digital cable.
For eligible older (over 75) or disabled viewers who may find the switch difficult, the BBC-run Switchover Help Scheme can provide everything you need to switch one TV to digital.
If you have any questions, or want to check your options for going digital, visit Digital UK's website or call their advice line on 08456 50 50 50.
Leaflets in languages other than English as well as videos with subtitles and BSL signing are available from the Digital UK Community outreach page.
For further information on the Switchover Help Scheme visit www.helpscheme.co.uk or call 0800 40 85 900 (textphone 0800 40 85 936).
No need to change your TV for switchover, but if you do...
While it’s not necessary, some people will regard the digital switchover as an ideal opportunity to change their television.
Almost any television can be switched to digital. To find out how visit www.digitaluk.co.uk.
If you have decided to upgrade to a new set anyway please use one of the options listed below to ensure that your old television is disposed of responsibly.
Take it to a Reuse and Recycling Centre (RRC)
Residents who are replacing their TV can drop their old one off free of charge at one of the local Reuse and Recycling Centres.
Cringle Dock RRC at Battersea cannot accept television sets.
Give it to a re-use charity
You can arrange a free collection from a local reuse charity if it is in good working order and has a SCART socket. Find one at www.londonreuse.org.
Freecycle it
You can offer your old television to someone in need through Lambeth Freecycle or a similar exchange site. Freecycle matches people who have things they want to get rid of with people who can use them. Find out more at uk.freecycle.org.
Call us
As a last resort, we can arrange for your old television to be collected, but there is a £20 charge for this. Call us at the Service Centre on 020 7926 9000 between 9am and 5pm. The Service Centre accepts card payments.
Further information