THIRD SECTOR HEBRIDES TO HELP DELIVER
DIGITAL TV SWITCHOVER

Third Sector Hebrides is to mobilise an army of charities and volunteers to help residents make the switch to digital TV in Lewis, it was announced today.

Starting in March, Third Sector Hebrides will work with other charities and voluntary groups to prepare people for the switchover, which starts in Lewis on 7th July 2010. The appointment has been made on behalf of Digital UK, the independent body in charge of switchover.

Third Sector Hebrides will mobilise local charities across Lewis to hold events and presentations, giving advice on how to switch over to digital TV. Charity staff and volunteers will be invited to attend free training sessions to understand the process and learn about the Switchover Help Scheme. Hundreds of people are expected to benefit from the advice and support given at these events.

Alasdair Nicholson, Chief Exective/Lead Co-Ordinator of Third Sector Hebrides, said: “Switching to digital TV will be straightforward for many people, but some others will need help, practical advice or reassurance.

“We look forward to working with our fellow charities to provide that support in Lewis and help prepare the local community for switchover. We will also encourage those who are eligible to apply for the Switchover Help Scheme.”

Local charities can apply for free training places, and for funding through a Small Grants Scheme set up to encourage extra events locally. Materials developed to help run events and explain switchover will also be provided.

Digital UK’s National Manager for Scotland, Paul Hughes, welcomed the announcement saying “the outreach work planned to reach into the community is essential and will help to ensure everyone can enjoy the benefits of digital TV when switchover arrives".

Digital UK will soon be holding roadshows across Lewis to provide further face-to-face advice for anyone who needs it.

The Switchover Help Scheme, run by the BBC, has also been set up to make it easier for older and disabled people to switch to digital TV. It is writing to eligible people in the area. People are eligible for the scheme if they are aged 75 years or more, have lived in a care home for six months or more, get (or could get) certain disability benefits, or are registered blind or partially sighted.