News Release

21st May 2009

Get set... Go! Get help from the Switchover Help Scheme

Older and disabled people living in the Isle of Man are reminded to get help to switch to digital TV from the BBC-run Switchover Help Scheme ahead of the Island’s TT festival starting on 30 May.

Road closures for the TT may delay Help Scheme customers getting their digital TV equipment delivered and installed before switchover on 18 June. Eligible people are urged to contact the Help Scheme before 15 May to ensure they get the help in time.

Sumera Bashir, Help Scheme spokesperson for the Isle of Man, said: "The sooner people get in touch the sooner they can enjoy the benefits of digital TV. Eligible people need to contact the Help Scheme before May 15 to ensure they get their chosen equipment in good time before the road closures start for the races."

The Help Scheme offers eligible people practical help to convert one TV set to digital, including installation if required, a demonstration, and aftercare.

Who is eligible?

• People aged 75 or over;
• People who have lived in a care home for six months or more;
• People who get (or could get) attendance allowance or disability living allowance from the DHSS, or constant attendance allowance or mobility supplement paid with their war pension;
• People who are registered blind or partially sighted.

What's on offer?

For a one-of payment of £40, or free for eligible people who get income support or income-based jobseeker’s allowance, the Help Scheme offers:

• Easy-to-use equipment to convert one television set to digital;
• Help with installing the equipment;
• Fitting a satellite dish, or aerial where we cannot fit a dish, if it’s needed to make the new equipment work;
• A demonstration of how the new equipment works;
• Someone to call for help while getting used to it

The standard offer of equipment on the Isle of Man is a Sky satellite system. Other options to switch to digital are also available, some at an extra cost.

Eligible people need to complete and send back the form included in the information pack to get the help. To make it even easier, an eligible person can apply by nominating someone to complete their form for them or by calling the free Help Scheme number 0800 40 85 901.

The Help Scheme urges everyone to reply even if they don’t need help with switchover. As a thank you they will be sent two energy-saving light bulbs. More information about the Help Scheme can be found at helpscheme.co.uk

Ends

Notes for Editors:

Press contacts:

PR and Communications Manager - Diane Green: diane.green@eaga.com

Direct line: 0191 245 8847 or mobile: 07951478832