Ben, the automotive industry charity, is dedicated to raising awareness about the vital support it provides to individuals and families within the automotive sector facing financial hardships. In an era marked by rising living costs, Ben’s assistance is crucial for many who are forced to choose between essential expenses like food and bills.
Over the past year, Ben’s helpline has addressed nearly 16,000 inquiries and distributed over 600 financial grants to those in dire need. The charity’s support services team has also guided hundreds of individuals in managing their finances, offering advice and information to help them regain stability. Additionally, Ben addresses the broader impact of financial stress on mental and emotional well-being. The demand for Ben’s services has surged by more than 15% in the past year.
Financial worries often contribute to mental health issues. According to Ben’s research, 70% of individuals in the automotive community are concerned about their finances, leading to increased anxiety, depression, and low moods. Over the past year, these concerns have grown: those struggling with debt rose from 19% to 22%, difficulty in budgeting increased from 14% to 26%, and instances of skipping meals jumped from 10% to 16%.
With the summer holidays approaching, parents face additional financial pressures. Holiday expenses and back-to-school costs, such as uniforms and supplies, add to the strain. Ben encourages automotive families not to struggle in silence and to reach out for support. Testimonials from those helped by Ben highlight the profound impact of this support:
“Ben’s support has been amazing, thank you for making a real difference in our household. You have absolutely no idea how much this has meant to us after the year we’ve had.”
“The food vouchers will make an amazing difference to the whole family. It’s been a long road this year. Although we’ve had lows, you’ve given us some great highs, especially for the family. You have been a great support.”
“Thank you, I’m feeling rather overwhelmed. It will help a great deal and I am very grateful.”
Rachel Clift, Health & Wellbeing Director at Ben, emphasized the importance of their support: “Cost-of-living pressures are still having a significant effect on many people in our automotive family. As a parent myself, I know that families now face the added costs that the summer holidays bring, as well as the back-to-school expenses. This is why we need to make sure everyone in our automotive industry knows that Ben is here for them.
“If you’re worrying about how you’re going to afford your food shop or your bills and the effect this is having on your mental or physical health, please get in touch. You’re not alone, Ben’s here for you. The sooner you get in touch, the sooner we can help you get back on track. If you’re struggling or at breaking point, contact our free and confidential helpline today.”
Ben is committed to supporting those who work, or have worked, in the automotive industry, as well as their families. This summer, Ben continues to provide essential aid to numerous families. If you need assistance, do not suffer in silence. Contact Ben’s helpline at 08081 311 333, or use their webchat at www.ben.org.uk. Additionally, you can access out-of-hours text support by texting BEN to 85258.
Stay informed with tips, advice, and tools from Ben by signing up at www.ben.org.uk/signup, and for online financial support, visit www.ben.org.uk/money.
