Ben launches new SilverCloud programmes for younger people

Ben is launching programmes on its digital mental health and wellbeing platform – Silvercloud – tailored to help younger automotive people aged 16 and over.

The automotive charity's new SilverCloud programmes focus on anxiety, depression, resilience, and positive body image, with programmes featuring a series of tools aimed at helping young employees to "build their personal resilience".

Among a series of interactive tools are videos, activities, quizzes, audio guides and a personal online support journal.

Rachel Clift, health and wellbeing director at Ben, said: “We’d like to ask as many automotive businesses as possible to support your new apprentices and younger people in your workforce by telling them about free access to the specially tailored programmes on SilverCloud.

“Looking after their mental health and wellbeing from an early age will help build their personal resilience and develop the ability to cope with change and future life challenges.”

Since January 2021, 924 individuals from the automotive industry have signed up and activated their SilverCloud programme and 396 of those chose a supported route, where they are assigned a Ben’s Mental Health Supporter who helps them navigate through the programme, said Ben.

Anxiety, sleep and depression are currently the top three programmes of choice, according to the charity.

Clift said: “We’ve been hugely encouraged to see so many people from across our industry signing up to SilverCloud since its launch and using the digital platform to help them look after their mental health and wellbeing.

“As we approach a key time of the year for fresh apprentice intakes, we’re anticipating a lot of new younger people entering our industry for the first time.

“This presents us with an opportunity to let them know about Ben and show that we’re here for them now and in the future.”

Ben has been forced to postpone its Industry Leader Challenge to climb Mount Kilimanjaro due to COVID-19 travel restrictions for Tanzania.

However, Ben is encouraging automotive sector employees to cook-up a morning treat for co-workers as part of its new ‘Big Breakfast’ fundraiser in October.

Sign-up for SilverCloud on the Ben website.