S4C extends the appeal of its programmes by providing English subtitles. The subtitles are suitable for non-Welsh speakers, mixed language homes and people who are d/Deaf. You can use English subtitles on over 80% of S4C programmes.

Some programmes are also shown with burnt-in subtitles (BIST), usually repeat showings of popular dramas, as well as other programmes. Subtitles are also available on our live or on demand service on the web.

Are English Subtitles available for the programme you want to watch?

Check the listings page to see if English subtitles are available.

Decide which system provides your TV services:

- Digital Satellite (Sky or Freesat via dish)

- Digital Terrestrial (Freeview, also via an aerial)

- Cable

and follow the step-by-step guidelines.

Digital Satellite (Sky)

A short-cut method is to press help which provides an easy option for accessing subtitles and use the arrow buttons to turn the subtitles on. Or...

1. Press the services button on your handset
2. Using the arrow buttons, move the highlight yellow line down to system set up
3. Press the select button on your handset
4. Use arrow buttons to highlight the 3rd option, language and subtitles
5. Press the select button on your handset
6. Ensure that English is highlighted as the preferred language (if it is not already automatically selected, use the arrow buttons to do so)
7. Press the on button on screen
8. Press the save new settings button on screen
9. Press the back-up button on your handset
10. You will automatically return to the Main Menu
11. Select S4C as your chosen channel in the usual way - 104 for S4C in Wales (134 outside Wales)
12. The Subtitles will now appear automatically

When the programme is over, follow steps 1-4 until you reach the language and subtitles menu, then press the off button followed by back-up.

Alternatively, press the red button, choose subtitles, and press select to choose the subtitling language.

Digital Satellite (Freesat)

1. Switch your TV set to S4C
2. Press the subtitles (subt) button on the handset
3. Choose language and select
4. The Subtitles will now appear automatically

Freesat boxes might vary, therefore please check the manufacturer's instructions if in doubt.

Digital Terrestrial (Freeview)

1. Switch your TV set to S4C
2. Press the subtitles button on the handset
3. The Subtitles will now appear automatically

When the programme is over, press the subtitles button again to cancel subtitles.

Digital Cable

1. Press the 'subtitles' button on your remote control.

To turn subtitles off, repeat steps 1 and press 'subtitles' again.