News Release

13th July 2010

TV star helps older people in Norwich tune into digital switchover

Tomorrow’s World presenter Maggie Philbin is in Norwich today (13th July - 10.30am to 12 noon) to reassure older and disabled people in the Anglia television region that help with the digital TV switchover is on its way.

Maggie - an ambassador for the Switchover Help Scheme – will be at Norwich Cathedral to talk to members of the community about how to make the change to digital on their TV sets.

With switchover starting in the Anglia region next year1, the majority of people in the area have already successfully made the switch. However some people, particularly those with mobility issues or who are over 75, may still be unsure about what to do and will find the process difficult.

That’s why the Help Scheme will also have a bus – fully equipped with digital technology for the switchover – at Norwich Cathedral today.

Maggie said: “Although switchover is a long way off, we understand that some people may struggle with what they need to do, especially if they are older, or in some cases, if they have a disability.

“The good news is that they simply don’t have to worry. They will get plenty of advice and support. What’s more, if they are aged 75, or over, or eligible through a disability, they will be offered practical help to convert their TV from the Switchover Help Scheme. They will be contacted directly in plenty of time to get help before switchover in their area.”

Sue Brody, Help Scheme manager for the Anglia region will also be on hand today to offer advice: “It’s essential that we can get right to the heart of the community to help ensure that older and disabled residents know they will get help to make the switch to digital television.

“Many people will find it simple to switch and lots of people already have. But for those who need a little extra help, we want them to know that they will get the additional support they need from the Switchover Help Scheme and Digital UK.”
 
For more information about the Switchover Help Scheme, please visit www.helpscheme.co.uk. To find out more about digital switchover, visit www.digitaluk.co.uk

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