One to watch in 2016: BEN

We talk to the motor industry charity to find out why it is aiming to strengthen its foundations by building on four key pillars this year.

The outstanding work that BEN continues to undertake on behalf of our motor industry shows no signs of slowing down this year. Fresh from last May’s unveiling of the Lynwood Care Centre in Sunninghill – a brand new, purpose-built care centre where people of all ages can take advantage of lifeenhancing care – the automotive charity is launching a new communications strategy that will help to better promote the support services that are available to all past and present industry professionals.

Built around four basic pillars – Mentally, Financially, Socially & Physically (fit) – the campaign will provide examples of the type of help that is available in each of these areas, including real-life case studies from those that have benefited from BEN’s assistance.

Nigel Williams, Head of Business Innovation at BEN, says: “As an organisation, BEN has been around for 110 years. To date thousands of people have benefited from our support, but there are still many who may not realise that our services are available to them.

“We work on behalf of the WHOLE of the motor industry, meaning any individual currently (or previously) employed in the motor trade is entitled to approach us for support. The same goes for their dependent family.”

He continues: “We know that the motor trade is constantly changing, so we need to move with the times to ensure our services are up-to-date with current needs. As such, our vision is clearer than ever: to be an integral part of the automotive industry, providing help and support to employees and colleagues and, in doing so, adding value to individuals, businesses and the sector in general.”

Working to provide long-term successful outcomes for those facing serious issues, BEN ensures that free and confidential support is just a phone call away. This comes in many forms, such as:

■ Information and advice: about rights, support options, benefits and entitlements;
■ Therapies: referrals to specialist services such as counselling, physio and mediation;
■ Specialist services: access to short break, volunteer support;
■ Money matters: money management, budgeting and advice;
■ Care and rehab: care in your home.

Nigel adds: “The four pillars that we’re highlighting aren’t exclusive of one another, in fact they often overlap. They’re not limited to a certain demographic either, as no one is immune to coming face-to-face with the types of problems that we’ll be highlighting.

“BEN is not just a helpline, we’re a lifeline for many people and we’ll continue to offer unrivalled aid to the industry in 2016.”