Ben is here for families unable to afford food & living costs this summer

Automotive industry charity, Ben, is raising awareness about the support currently being provided to automotive individuals and families who are struggling with money worries, debt or urgent financial need.

Due to the continued cost-of-living pressures, Ben is providing vital support for many automotive families who would otherwise have to make impossible choices such as whether to put food on the table or pay essential bills.

Over the past 12 months, Ben’s helpline has managed nearly 16,000 enquiries and administered over 600 financial grants for those struggling with money. In addition, Ben’s support services team have provided hundreds of automotive individuals with financial information, advice and guidance to help them get back on track with their finances, as well as support them with the wider impact on their mental health and emotional wellbeing. In the last year, the demand for Ben’s services and support has grown by over 15%. 

Money worries often have a knock-on effect on people’s mental health and wellbeing. According to Ben’s research, 7 in 10 of our automotive family worry about money and these people are more likely to experience feelings of anxiety, low mood and depression. Year on year, the number of people worrying about money has increased (from 6 in 10), debt increased by 3% (19% to 22%), being unable to budget increased by 12% (14% to 26%) and skipping meals increased by 6% (10% to 16%). 

With the summer holidays approaching, this time of year can be a real headache for parents. Additional costs add up over the holiday period and back-to-school items such as uniforms, bags and PE kits add financial pressure. Ben is urging automotive families not to struggle alone and to get in touch. Families who Ben has already supported have recently said:

“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, said: “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 here for those who work, or have worked, in the automotive industry and their family dependents. Ben is already supporting many automotive families this Summer. Don't suffer in silence, contact our helpline:08081 311 333 or use our webchat at www.ben.org.uk. You can also access Ben’s out of hours text support line by texting BEN to 85258.

Sign up to receive tips, advice and tools from Ben at www.ben.org.uk/signup and, for online support with money, visit www.ben.org.uk/money.