Digital switchover on television is scheduled to take place in Great Britain from 2008 through 2012 and it is the biggest change since the introduction of colour television in 1967.
There are a significant number of concerns to disabled people over this, and appropriate representation has been made by the NLBD Section. As a consequence a scheme will be set up where equipment to convert one television will be introduced, with help with installation and follow-up support for people aged 75 years and over and people with significant disabilities (defined as people receiving Attendance Allowance or Disability Living Allowance).
There will be no charge for this help for eligible households, e.g. those on Income Support, Job-Seeker's Allowance or Pension Credit, but there may be a modest fee for other households. Insofar as buying equipment is concerned, the digital switchover certification mark known as the Digital Tick, needs to be sought. Details of retail outlets and products that can use it can be found by clicking here. Documents to meet the specific requirements of people with disabilities can be obtained by emailing: publications@digitaluk.co.uk
There are two ways to access a digital television channel. Many people do it just by its number but the problem is the numbers are long and not easily memorable. The other way is through the electronic programme guide (EPG) but there is no EPG on the current market which is accessible to blind people. Milan Vasilko and his team at the University of Bournemouth have created one but we now have the fairly significant matter of getting it onto the market. It should be understood that the EPG is not owned by the channels but is a separate entity. We are, of course, campaigning for this accessibility.
As far as the switchover is concerned, the schedule by commercial television regions is Border 2008; Granada 2009; Wales 2009; Westcountry 2009; Grampian 2010; Scottish 2010; West 2010; Anglia 2011; Central 2011; Yorkshire 2011; London 2012; Meridian 2012; Tyne Tees 2012; and Ulster 2012.
The NLBD currently have representation on the Ofcom Advisory Committee on Older and Disabled People (ACOD) and any members seeking further clarification of the above should contact Gareth Davies on 020 7607 4794 or 07786 062594.