Digital TV Switchover in Skye and Lochalsh

In Skye and Lochalsh, the digital TV switchover begins on 7 July 2010 when those areas receiving their TV signal from the Eitshal transmitter will need to have suitable digital equipment installed in order to continue watching TV after the switchover.
For many people, television is an important way of receiving information from the outside world, and the process of changing from analogue to digital can be worrying. We believe that it is vital for older and other vulnerable people to receive the right information and advice from a local organisation that they know and trust. 

Some people not eligible for support via the Switchover Help Scheme, or who choose not to take it up, may also need help to switch. To provide support to these groups, a new joint venture organisation called Digital Outreach Ltd has been set up by leading charities to deliver the Digital Switchover Community Outreach Programme on behalf of Digital UK, the organisation responsible for managing the switchover across the UK.  The programme is targeted at:

• older people
• people who have sensory, mobility and/or dexterity impairments
• people who have a learning disability
• people who have mental health problems
• people who do not have English as a first language
• people who are socially isolated

The Switchover Help Scheme has been designed to help eligible older and disabled people who may face greater barriers in switching to digital TV. If you are aged 75 or over or get disability living allowance or attendance allowance you can get both financial and practical installation help in making the change. This help will ensure that at least one television set in your house will be able to receive digital signals. You will have to pay a small charge for the practical installation help unless you are on Income Support, Job Seekers allowance or Pension Credit. People who are eligible for the Scheme will be contacted personally by letter and asked if they want assistance.

 

The support we will make available will include:

• Free (train the trainer) training for staff and volunteers on switchover. The "train the trainer" workshops are aimed at people who can raise awareness of switchover within their organisation or community and cascade the information within their teams. To find out more or to secure a place on one of the training workshops contact us.
• Information on the Switchover Help Scheme
• Speakers for presentations and meetings
• Small grants to support new local switchover related activities or initiatives by voluntary and community sector organisations
• Good practice sharing and advice on local activities or initiatives
• Digital UK leaflets and material

Switchover dates

Eitshal Transmitter: Lewis, Wester Ross, North West Sutherland and parts of Harris and Skye 7 July and 21 July 2010

Skriaig Transmitter: Skye, Harris, North Uist, Benbecula, South Uist and parts of Barra 14 July and 28 July 2010

Torosay Transmitter: South west Highlands  and Islands (inc. parts of south Skye) 13 October 27 October 2010

On the first date BBC Two will be switched off.  On the second date all other analogue channels will be turned off.

To check with transmitter you are visit the Postcode Checker at http://www.digitaluk.co.uk