Write a comment
With just weeks to go until the start of the digital TV switchover in Northern Ireland, viewers in the Newry area are being reminded to look out for their guide to switchover.
Digital UK’s 20-page guide to the digital TV switchover will be sent to 750,000 households across Northern Ireland, urging viewers to get ready and providing detailed information about switchover, including a guide to TV equipment options, retuning instructions and how to receive Republic of Ireland channels.
Switchover mascot Digit Al paid a visit to Mayor of Newry and Mourne, Councillor John McArdle, to make sure he knows how important it is to read his leaflet in order to get ready for 10 October, when analogue television will start to be turned off.
Latest research* indicates that most viewers are well prepared, with more than nine out of ten households already having made the switch to digital TV. Those still watching in analogue are now being advised to get ready for switchover – when Freeview coverage will be boosted to reach virtually all homes – or risk being left with a blank screen.
Digital UK and the Switchover Help Scheme are stepping up their communications campaign, with roadshows visiting towns across Northern Ireland between now and October. On-screen messages will appear on analogue channels and there will be further TV, press and radio advertising. 
The Help Scheme (helpscheme.co.uk) will be writing to eligible older and disabled people, reminding them of the assistance on offer to convert one TV set to digital, including a choice of equipment, installation and aftercare. The help is available for those aged 75 and over or who are eligible for certain disability benefits or registered blind or partially sighted or living in care homes.
Denis Wolinski, Digital UK’s National Manager in Northern Ireland, said: “Most people have already made the switch to digital, but we know some people may leave it until the last minute, or may need a little extra advice. We’re urging anyone still watching analogue television to make the change now and to contact the Help Scheme if they’re eligible for practical support.”
Mayor of Newry and Mourne, Councillor John McArdle, said: “It’s important that people read the Digital UK leaflet which will be coming through their letterboxes very soon. October isn’t too far away so we all need to think about what, if anything, we need to do in order to continue watching television. However, there’s lots of help available and I’d urge the public to make use of it well in advance of the switchover so they are fully prepared.”
Viewers can check their switchover date and options for getting digital TV by using the Digital UK postcode checker at www.digitaluk.co.uk or by ringing 08456 50 50 50
Help Scheme Additional Information
People aged 75 and over, eligible for certain disability benefits, registered blind or partially sighted or living in care homes are entitled to practical help from the BBC-run Switchover Help Scheme. For £40, they will be given equipment to switch one TV per household to digital. They will be able to have that equipment installed if they want it, a demonstration of how it works and a number to call while they get used to things. If they’re eligible and also on income-related benefits, the help will be free. Everyone eligible will be contacted directly before switchover. More information is available on 0800 40 85 900 and online at www.helpscheme.co.uk
