Help still available for digital change

Most people will have managed the first stage of switchover, which happened on October 10, without a problem. But some may have found it more difficult than they expected.

The Switchover Help Scheme is open for applications until November 24. Tens of thousands of people in Northern Ireland have already benefitted from the scheme, which is designed around the needs of older and disabled people and can make switching to digital TV easier for them.

If someone is eligible for help, the scheme will have already written to them at their home address. And people can still take up the offer of help, even if they contacted the scheme to opt out earlier this year.

The scheme’s installers can convert a second TV set in your home even if you already have digital on your main TV, and will also set up and install everything you need to make the switch to digital.

All installers are approved and no one will call without an appointment. A free 12-month aftercare line is also provided.

Northern Ireland manager for the Help Scheme, Nigel Tilson said: “We know that some people only realise at the last minute that they could do with some help – even if up until now they thought that they were going to be OK for switchover.

“We’re still here to help any eligible older or disabled person make the switch to digital and provide everything they need to convert their TV.

“If someone you know needs help please contact us on 0800 40 87 654 before November 24.”

You are eligible for help if you:

- are aged 75 or over,

- have lived in a care home for six months or more,

- get (or could get) disability living allowance (DLA), attendance or constant attendance allowance, or mobility supplement,

- are registered blind or partially sighted.

Most people will be asked to pay £40 towards the help. To benefit from the Help Scheme, call 0800 40 87 654.