Ethos Public Relations Manchester

Switching over 1,200 homes

by Ethos public relations

This year the general public can expect to see a marked increase in the information provided to it regarding the digital TV switchover.

The Granada region is one of the earliest to be switched in November 2009 and if you are confused about your own switchover, spare a thought for Nigel Fenton who as Acting General Manager at one of the region?s biggest social landlords, has responsibility for managing the smooth digital transition for over 1000 households in Hyndburn.

"The vast majority of people living in Hyndburn Homes' rented properties will be responsible for their own switchover," he said. "However, Hyndburn Homes has around 1200 homes where people are served by communal television aerials and will be relying on us to put everything in place to make the switchover happen.

"These include people living in flats and people living in supported and sheltered schemes.

"With so many different tenant groups and so many varied properties in our portfolio, it's vital that we continue to plan carefully for the switchover in order to ensure that each residence has the relevant technology in place."

Hyndburn Homes has earmarked £300,000 to upgrade all the communal TV aerials to digital integrated reception systems.

Nigel concludes: "2009 will be a very busy year as we ensure that all our properties are not only ready for the switchover but are future proofed. With so many property types and so many diverse resident groups, the challenge is to ensure every home has what it needs."

Patricia Nuttall, 84, lives at Merlin Court sheltered scheme in Oswaldtwistle where new digital aerials were fitted several months ago. She said: "Like most people I enjoy watching the TV, especially the CSI series, so I wouldn't want to be without those when the switchover happens later this year. I feel prepared for the move to digital TV and have already bought a HD ready TV so I don't go without!"

Social housing residents living in general rented accommodation are responsible for upgrading their own services. Information regarding which digital services are currently available in your area is available on www.digitaluk.co.uk or www.digitaltelevision.gov.uk or telephone 0845 6 50 50 50.

Posted at 1^st September 2009