Ben, the automotive industry charity, is providing support to individuals and families that are facing money worries, debt or urgent need this summer.
Ben is already providing support for many families that are struggling to make ends meet and unable to afford essentials such as food and utilities during the cost-of-living crisis. Over the last 12 months, Ben has apparently supported 128 households that couldn’t afford to put food on the table, 66 households that couldn’t pay their rent or mortgage costs and 52 households that couldn’t afford utility bills.
More people than ever before are contacting Ben’s Helpline for support – during April-June 2023 there was reportedly a 23% increase in enquiries (year on year) and a 20% increase in support cases (year on year). People aren’t only said to be struggling to make ends meet, they are also struggling with their mental health. Ben considers managing money as a key area that impacts on wellbeing. Given the knock-on effect that financial problems can have, increasing levels of stress, anxiety, low mood and depression are made worse when people can’t afford basic living costs.
In addition to supporting basic living costs, Ben claims it also wants to give families, that wouldn’t otherwise be able to afford it, the opportunity to enjoy spending time together and create memories during the holidays. This is as well as taking pressure off families that face impending back to school costs including school uniform, bags and PE kits.
Ben is encouraging people not to struggle alone and get in touch.
Here are some quotes from people who have been supported by Ben during tough times:
“I felt at the lowest of low points in my life. I’ve never applied for any sort of benefit or hand-out in my life. I felt ashamed and embarrassed to ask for financial support. Ben made me feel welcome and worthy of this support.”
“The food voucher came through yesterday. My mum cried her eyes out, it’s such a weight off our minds. We can’t thank you enough!”
“I was reluctant to call Ben – typical man, not asking for help… but I did and after the first few minutes, knew I had made the right decision.”
Rachel Clift, Health & Wellbeing Director at Ben, said: “Times are getting increasingly tough for families and individuals, especially now the summer holidays are here. If you’re worried about making ends meet, buying food, paying the bills and school uniforms for September, you’re not alone, Ben is here for you. We want everyone in our industry to know that we’re here.
“Many individuals and families are being pushed to the edge with the current rising cost of living. It’s also impacting other areas of their health and wellbeing so if you work, or have worked, in the automotive industry please get in touch now if you’re struggling or feeling at breaking point. You can contact our free and confidential helpline.”
Ben is there for those who work, or have worked, in the automotive industry and their family dependents. The charity is already supporting many automotive families this Summer. Don’t suffer in silence, contact Ben’s helpline: 08081 311 333 or use the webchat on its website. You can also access Ben’s out of hours text support line by texting BEN to 85258.
For employers who would like to find out more about working in partnership with Ben, or who would be interested in discussing Health & Wellbeing support for employees, email Rachel Clift, Health & Wellbeing Director at Ben: Rachel.Clift@ben.org.uk.
