Ben launches neurodiversity support and resources

Automotive charity Ben has launched new support and resources to better support industry colleagues that are neurodiverse.

Ben has launched its neurodiversity resources as part  of Neurodiversity Celebration Week.

Neurodivergence is when a person’s brain processes, learns, and/or behaves differently from what is ‘typical’ and neurotypical describes how the average person’s brain works.

From Ben’s latest insights, those in the automotive industry who have reported having neurodiverse conditions such as autism, ADHD, or dyslexia are more likely to experience mental, physical, financial, and social issues.

In 2024, 73% of neurodivergent individuals in the industry said they experienced feelings of anxiety, compared to 44% of neurotypical individuals.

Neurodivergent individuals were also more likely to be stressed at home (57%), compared to 32% of neurotypical individuals.

Currently, almost 9% of people receiving support from Ben are affected by neurodiversity - either personally, or they are the partner, carer, or parent of someone who is neurodivergent.

In light of this, Ben has added two new support programmes to its digital therapeutic platform, Silvercloud, which is free for automotive workers and their family dependents who can sign up using the code: ben.

The new programmes are:

• Living well with ADHD
• Living well as an autistic person

Ben has also launched new neurodiversity-related online tips and advice to help those seeking support and diagnosis. The online content (available at www.ben.org.uk/neurodiversity) offers guidance on the following areas:

• What causes neurodivergence
• Types of neurodivergence
• Getting diagnosed - what to do
• Challenges
• Neurodiversity and disability
• Resources and further support

In addition, Ben has released two new personal stories from people who have been diagnosed as neurodivergent and are now sharing their experiences:

• Dean Lomas, known in the industry as the neurodivergent mechanic, tells his story
• Ellen Plumer, head of outreach & marketing at Ben, shares her story about ADHD

The charity has also released a new article for employers, sharing thoughts from Julie Hayes, Ben’s head of specialist services, about embracing neurodiversity in the workplace to help leaders and managers support their employees: click here.

Rachel Clift, Ben’s chief executive officer, said: “This Neurodiversity Celebration Week, we’re pleased to launch a range of new support programmes, resources, and content on this hugely important topic.

“Our insights reveal that neurodivergent individuals in the automotive industry are facing greater challenges with their health and wellbeing, making it all the more important for us to provide easy access to relevant support for them and show them that we’re always here if and when they need us.

“As always, we remain dedicated to supporting everyone who works, or has worked, in the automotive industry.

"We believe that, by fully embracing neurodiversity across our sector, we can create a more inclusive environment where all individuals can thrive, both personally and professionally.

"Through this campaign, we aim to raise awareness and reduce stigma around neurodivergence, as well as encourage open conversations, greater understanding, and support.”

Ben will also share some resources from Neurodiversity Celebration Week on its available channels.