Renfrewshire CVS to Help Deliver Digital TV Switchover

It has been officially announced that Renfrewshire CVS is to mobilise an army of charities and volunteers to help residents make the switch to digital TV in Renfrewshire.

Starting in November, Renfrewshire CVS will work with other charities and voluntary groups to prepare people for the switchover, which starts in Renfrewshire on 8th June. The appointment has been made on behalf of Digital UK, the independent body in charge of the switchover.

Renfrewshire CVS will mobilise local charities across Renfrewshire to hold events and presentations, giving advice on how to switch over to digital TV. Charity staff and volunteers will be invited to attend free briefing sessions to understand the process and learn about the Switchover Help Scheme. Thousands of people are expected to benefit from the advice and support given at these events.

Renfrewshire CVS is a local organisation that provides support to voluntary organisations, charities and community groups in the area to help them to achieve their aims and empower others. Their extensive networks, membership and partners make them ideally placed to take part in a programme of this type.

Janis McDonald, Chief Executive Officer of Renfrewshire CVS, said: “Switching to digital TV will be straightforward for many people, but some others will need help, practical advice or reassurance.

“We look forward to working with our fellow charities to provide that support in Renfrewshire and help prepare the local community for switchover. We will also encourage those who are eligible to apply for the Switchover Help Scheme.”

Local charities can apply for free briefing places, and for funding through a Small Grants Scheme set up to encourage extra events locally. Materials developed to help run events and explain switchover will also be provided.

Russell Keene, Digital UK’s Regional Manager in Scotland, welcomed the announcement saying “the outreach work planned to reach into the community is essential and will help to ensure everyone can enjoy the benefits of digital TV when switchover arrives”.

Digital UK will soon be holding road shows across the central belt to provide further face-to-face advice for anyone who needs it.

The Switchover Help Scheme, run by the BBC, has also been set up to make it easier for older and disabled people to switch to digital TV. It is writing to eligible people in the area. People are eligible for the scheme if they are aged 75 years or more, have lived in a care home for six months or more, get (or could get) certain disability benefits, or are registered blind or partially sighted.