Ben supporting auto industry people in COVID-19 crisis

Automotive industry charity Ben says the number of people seeking its support for mental health and money concerns has increased. It adds that demand will continue to grow as the full impact of the COVID-19 pandemic unfolds. The charity has created a ‘Coronavirus hub’ on its website, with specially developed online tips, advice, and tools for managing money, coping with stress, and facilitating home working now available.

More than 50 per cent of people who turn to Ben need help with their mental health, the charity states. And it expects increases in this figure due to the pandemic. Ben will provide mental health assessments, life coaching and telephone based counselling, as well as other talking therapies, it says. In addition to other digital programmes currently available on its website, it has added the ‘Coping with challenging times’ module to help people through COVID-19.

Ben also supports individuals in financial need on a case by case basis. It administers welfare grants for food, utility bills, household goods, essential travel costs, childcare and council tax. Its support services team are also working with individuals to help with relevant solutions such as payment breaks for mortgage lenders, housing providers and utility bills. The team will also help people to access relevant grants and maximise benefits they are entitled to.

Rachel Clift, health & wellbeing director at Ben, said: “Our industry has been hit hard by the Coronavirus pandemic and automotive people are currently facing challenging and uncertain times. We want everyone in our industry to know that we’re here for them and we can provide the support they need. We’re incredibly proud to be delivering on our purpose of providing ‘support for life’ for those who work, or have worked, in our industry.

“During the last 12 months, we’ve experienced a substantial increase in those seeking support with their mental health and we continue to help those who are struggling financially. Our support for those facing money problems really is vital right now, especially for those who are unable to benefit from the Government’s furlough scheme and are left in financial limbo. Of course, the impact of the current situation is likely to continue to have an effect on people’s mental health and wellbeing.

“Our online and digital support is also crucial because we can help even more people who reach out to us due to Covid-19. These are really tough times for many in our industry, but we’re here, providing the relevant support that automotive people need right now.”