The Cedars Care Home - Digital Switchover

The Challenge

The Cedars Care Home called me in a panic. Half their channels had disappeared overnight, and residents were upset about missing their regular programs. For many residents, television is their primary entertainment and connection to the outside world. The previous contractor wanted two weeks and a fortune to fix it.

With 38 rooms plus communal areas, any disruption had to be minimal. Many residents have mobility issues or dementia, so having strangers working in their rooms needed careful handling. The management needed someone who understood both the technical and human side of the job.

• 38 resident rooms plus 4 communal TV areas
• Mix of analogue and digital equipment causing conflicts
• Urgent fix needed - residents distressed about missing programs
• Vulnerable residents requiring sensitive approach
• Limited budget but needed reliable long-term solution
• Previous contractor relationship had broken down

My Solution

I identified the problem immediately - their old amplifier couldn't handle the digital signal changes. Rather than patch it up, I installed a new digital-ready distribution system that would prevent future issues. Working with the care staff, I scheduled room access during meal times and activities to minimize disruption to residents.

The new system gives perfect digital reception to every room, with capacity for future services. I also trained the maintenance staff on basic troubleshooting and left clear documentation. They know they can call me directly if needed - no call centres, no waiting.

• New digital distribution amplifier system installed
• Every room tested and signal optimized
• Communal areas upgraded with larger screen connections
• Simple channel list created for residents
• Staff training on basic system operation
• Direct support line for urgent issues

The Result

Two days of work, minimal disruption, and every resident back to enjoying their programs. The home manager said it was the smoothest contractor experience they'd had in years. Six months on, I still maintain their system with quarterly check-ups.

This is why I love working with care homes - TV might seem like a small thing, but for residents, it's their routine, their comfort, their connection. Getting it right matters. The Cedars now recommends me to other homes in their group. Where others see just another installation job, I see people who need their service working properly.