A new service has been introduced that enables Isle of Man residents to access Government information via their Sky TV boxes.
‘Looking Local’, which will cost ?15,000 a year to deliver, uses the digital satellite network to take important news, advice and services into people’s homes.
The aim is to broaden the reach of information available from the Isle of Man Government in a way that is easy, familiar and does not require any additional equipment.
It will complement existing services by providing a convenient and free new option for local people, particularly those without transport or access to the internet; or those who do not feel sufficiently confident in their computer skills to conduct web searches.
Business Change Manager Dan Davies (pictured), who has steered the launch, comments "Despite the extent of broadband penetration on the Island, there is still a significant minority who cannot access the internet.
"This can lead to them being socially as well as digitally excluded.
"Looking Local will help to bridge the digital divide in a way that is free, easy-to-use and available 24 hours a day."
The Looking Local service, whose introduction has been timed to tie in with the digital switchover, can be accessed by anyone with a Sky satellite receiver connected to a telephone line.
Users simply press the interactive button, select 9 for TV Keys and enter 56225 (LOCAL). The service is also available via mobile phones and the Nintendo Wii.
Chief Minister Tony Brown MHK comments, "Looking Local makes a broad range of Isle of Man Government information available.
"Users can easily obtain information on healthcare services, legal and consumer advice, travel updates and job opportunities.
"The service will also feature news and events. There are also options to report issues such as benefit fraud or request certain Government reports, application forms or guides.
Unlike www.gov.im, where much content is categorised by Government department, the information available through Looking Local is organised by theme: Crime and Safety, Education and Learning; Environment, Health and Social Care, Tourism, Money, Utilities and Government.
Users can find out everything from civic amenity site opening times to how to apply for a student grant! For the first six months, explains Mr Davies, the information available will be mainly 'static', while the Government monitors the use of the facility to assess what further content will be most useful to people in the future.
In addition to Looking Local, he continues, "plans are being progressed to expand the services that are available online and partnership projects such as computer drop-in centres and training courses are under way to improve digital inclusion.
"While many people are content to access services and information through the www.gov.im website, Government is receptive to the needs of those who choose not to use the internet.
The Chief Minister concludes,"This initiative forms a small part of the comprehensive range of services offered by the Isle of Man Government.
"It is another way for us to provide information to people and businesses in the Isle of Man and further demonstrates Government’s commitment to make services accessible and inclusive.
"We are always keen to embrace technology and innovation and see Looking Local as a cost-effective way of reaching out to an even wider audience."
