The way we watch TV is changing

Across the UK, traditional TV (analogue) is switching to digital TV. For some parts of the UK, including Essex, this has happened already. For London the switchover is planned to start from April 2012.

What do I need to do?

• If you live in a flat and pay service charges for a communal aerial, you don’t need to do anything. We are responsible for the aerial’s suitability to accept digital signals and our appointed contractor for these works, SCCI Limited, is checking these right now
• If you have satellite or cable TV or you have a digital set top box you do not need to do anything as these systems already receive digital TV
• Everyone else will need to check their aerial’s signal strength and decide whether to pay for an aerial upgrade or buy a digital set top box – a box that tunes the digital signals to television pictures without the need for a TV aerial

Our communal aerial is being upgraded – what does this mean?
If an upgrade is required we will be putting in a system that offers free to air TV such as Freeview, together with the option to subscribe to additional satellite services such as Sky+ or Freesat.

How can I check my TV aerial’s strength?
Any roof top aerial in good condition is capable of receiving digital TV services. If you have good reception now it is unlikely you will need to replace your existing aerial. If you have a ‘snowy’ analogue picture now you will need to consider replacing your aerial, or purchasing a digital set top box. Additional advice can be found on the Digital UK website www.digitaluk.co.uk.

Can I get any assistance with the switchover?
The Help Scheme run by the BBC provides free equipment and services for older and disabled viewers. This includes anyone aged over 75, people with a significant disability, registered blind or partially sighted or anyone living in a care home for six months or more. Visit www.helpscheme.co.uk or call 0800 40 85 900 for more information.

If you have any queries about our communal TV aerial works, get in touch with us on 020 8522 4050. For general digital switchover queries visit the Digital UK website www.digitaluk.co.uk or call them on 08456 50 50 50.