New IPTV project in Hull aimed at independent living for the elderly

October 9, 2008 - A new IPTV project in the UK city of Hull called 'Stream IPTV' has been launched, aimed at enabling independent living for the elderly and offering a range of services via the television set, including exercise programmes, crime prevention advice, email, reminders and local information.

The service was developed by local firm Broadband Capital, and set up and funded by Hull City Council. It is already available in around 50 homes in the city, and this is expected to be expanded to 250 households connected by March of next year. By plugging the dedicated set-top box into their television and broadband connection, users get access to Freeview channels, as well as local programmes and services on-demand via their TV. A single button on their remote control provides a personalised menu of information and services, tailored to their needs.

Mark Jones, Managing Director of Broadband Capital, commented: "Combining the familiarity of television with the Internet, vulnerable residents can be shown how to access information to services immediately and privately, from the comfort of their own homes. It also allows organisations such as Hull City Council to reach out to residents who would have been previously isolated from council services."

Government Minister Ivan Lewis, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Care Services, added: "Arguably, Hull is leading the way in trying to improve community services. With the innovation I've seen, Hull has the potential to be at the cutting edge in terms of change and reform throughout the country."

The service is delivered over the Kingston Interactive Television (KIT) network, a public initiative developed by local telecoms monopoly Kingston Communications and delivering IPTV and VOD services until discontinuation in 2006, under the technical guidance of Mr Jones. More details on the new service should be available shortly.