Digital UK backs switchover legacy project
Digital UK has announced its backing for a scheme to build on the success of the UK's first television switchover in Copeland.
Two months on from completion of switchover, Ford Ennals, Digital UK Chief Executive, presented a grant to help establish a digital inclusion project run by Age Concern North West Cumbria, which will provide advice, assistance and training in new technologies for people of all ages.
The launch of the project coincided with the release of follow-up research into the UK's first switchover which saw four analogue services replaced with a line up of 20 digital channels. The research indicated that all households have converted to digital television and that the programme of communication and assistance worked well.
Speaking at the launch of the digital inclusion scheme, Ford Ennals said: "Copeland's place in broadcasting history is assured, not only as a digital pioneer but also in setting the standard for community involvement and support. The success of this first switchover depended on the many local organisations and volunteers who got involved and made sure people got the help they needed. The community-based approach we took in Copeland will be the model for switchovers to come all across the UK."
The scheme will allow existing digital volunteers to continue their work in the areas of digital television and to expand their work into different technologies. Key aims of the project will include: Establishing a Digital Inclusion Centre in Whitehaven to provide advice and support in using a range of digital technologies, developing the 'Digipal' volunteer network set up for switchover, helping people get the best from digital television and other new technologies and providing computer courses for older people and those seeking to improve their employment prospects.
At a ceremony in Whitehaven on January 17, Mr Ennals presented Age Concern North West Cumbria with a one-off grant to help establish the inclusion scheme. He said: "Contributing to this project is our legacy to a community which has paved the way for successful switchovers elsewhere. It's an exciting idea which goes beyond our original focus of television, and we're delighted to join our partner organisations in delivering it."
Mary Bradley, Director of Age Concern North West Cumbria, said: "The switch to digital television brought forward new volunteers and organisations to support the community. We are determined to continue their good work and to extend that support to new areas where possible. I'd like to thank Digital UK for sharing our desire to see a positive legacy from the first switchover which will enable more people to benefit from a range of new technologies."
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