TV Services 24 / 7
United Welsh is reaching out to all its customers in 2011 by providing a new 24hr digital TV service and addressing digital inclusion.
This month United Welsh launched its new digital TV channel through ‘Looking Local’, an interactive service that acts as a platform for United Welsh to broadcast digitally. Easy enough to access at the touch of a button through Sky or Virgin Media.
United Welsh services are readily accessible and are always communicated strongly. But as an organisation we are always looking for new and innovative ways of reaching out to our customers and to be a leader within the sector.
44% of our tenants could have access to the digital services – so by going digital we reach more of our tenants – specifically addressing those without a PC or Broadband. By going digital we also expand our service capability – being accessible 24hours 7 days a week, especially useful during the difficult weather conditions that we are presently encountering! We are also hoping to alleviate the demands on our services over the telephone e.g. the bottle neck of calls on a Monday morning.
Greg England, Head of Marketing and Communication for United Welsh explains;
“People lead busy lives and it’s important that services are available 24/7 to meet demand and also offer convenience. Most people are comfortable using the remote on a television so this service has a distinct advantage over the internet which requires a certain amount of computer literacy. During December the new channel received over 1000 hits and I’m confident this number will increase as our customers become more familiar with the service. This is not a replacement for the internet or telephone, but an important addition to ensure that people have options when it comes to communicating with United Welsh. I’m proud to be able to say that United Welsh is the first housing association in Wales to provide services for its customers - on digital TV!”
The Digital TV Channel will provide information about United Welsh and the services we provide. Requesting and reporting services, out of hours, from the comfort of the sofa at the touch of a button – it doesn’t get much easier than that!
As we know, the recession is proving difficult for everyone. United Welsh is doing everything possible to improve the situation – some examples include a job search service through the Job Centre and access to low cost loans through the local credit union. If transport is a problem, users can view train and bus timetables, or even book a GP appointment through participating surgeries.
Why not get familiar with the site? Let us know what you think, and any suggestions you might have – send them through to tv@uwha.co.uk or call us on 02920 858100 where one of our advisors will be more than happy to help.
Providing access to services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
