Ready for the Digital Switchover?
Recently you may have seen adverts on television, or in the press, about the switch to digital TV. This switchover is due to happen in 2010, and the existing analogue services (where you only receive BBC 1 & 2, ITV, Channel 4, and Five) will no longer be broadcast after this date. In order to make sure that the switchover runs as smoothly as possible, a help scheme has been established to ensure that everyone has up to date information about the whole process.
However, the help scheme is not only about informing people, it has also been set up to provide assistance to those who are eligible for help.
The Switchover Help Scheme will help convert TVs so that they can receive digital broadcasts, and will automatically contact those who qualify during 2009. People will be sent leaflets through the post that will explain the switchover process in further detail.
Who is eligible for help?
· People who are aged 75 or over.
· Those who receive attendance allowance, mobility supplements, or disability living allowance.
· People who are registered blind or partially sighted.
Will I need a new aerial?
For the majority of people, the switch to digital TV will not require the fitting of a new aerial, and the Bristol City Council website warns that anyone knocking on your door offering to upgrade or replace your TV aerial is unlikely to be a real tradesperson
It also suggests that should anyone attempt to offer such an upgrade or replacement, you should decline to have any work done and contact Trading Standards (0854 04 05 06).
For more information regarding the Digital Switchover Help Scheme you can visit their website at: ….. www.helpscheme.co.uk., or call them on 0800 40 85 900. They also have a text phone service on 0800 40 85 936. You can also write to them with any queries, free of charge, at:
Freepost,
Switchover Help Scheme,
Richmond House,
Metro Riverside Park,
Watermark,
Swalwell, NE11 9SZ.
Richard Davey