Automotive charity BEN is launching a series of new campaigns designed to raise awareness of key health and wellbeing issues, encouraging people to access the charity’s wide range of support services.
The first campaign, which launches this month, focuses on mental fitness and dealing with problems that may impact on people’s mental wellbeing.
The charity also aims to help employers support workers who may be struggling by raising awareness of its support services.
A series of emails, posters, online resources and a social media campaign will encourage people to Speak To Ben if they are experiencing problems.
Yvonne Hignell, BEN’s support services director, said: “One in four adults and one in 10 children experience mental health problems every year, but it’s not talked about in the same way as physical illness.
“We want to help remove the taboo around mental health issues and encourage anyone who is struggling to ask for help.
“While this is not an issue that is unique to the automotive industry, our role as the industry’s support network means it is vital people know they can call us for free and confidential help.”
Those within the automotive industry can call BEN’s free and confidential helpline to speak with support officers who offer access to a range of services designed to deliver long term solutions.
Mental health issues can range from depression, stress and anxiety to eating disorders and addiction.
The root of the problem may not be mental health itself, it could be financial
pressures, bereavement or a relationship breakdown that lead to a deterioration in mood, emotional turmoil and an inability to cope. BEN can provide counselling, access to bereavement support and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy as well as advice on where to go for help and support.
Hignell said: “No-one is immune to life’s struggles and it’s often the strongest people who are least likely to ask for help.
“We would encourage anyone experiencing problems to call BEN. You are not alone and there are people here who care and can help. Don’t forget we offer help to your family too, so whether it’s you, your partner, parent or child who needs help, call us.”
BEN is urging all automotive companies to support the campaign by internal promotion and is providing free resources to use in the workplace to drive awareness. Dealers can BEN’s marketing team on 01344 298 122 or visit ben.org.uk/mentallyfitworkplace for more information.
Author:
Tom Seymour
Freelance writer
Freelance writer for AM, Tom Seymour has been a specialist B2B journalist covering the automotive sector for over 14 years. He started his freelance career in 2015 and currently writes for a variety of automotive, business and technology publications.
Guest - 27/10/2015 12:39
It is a shame this is not nearer the top of the newsletter. I think it is great that BEN has recognised the importance of this within the automotive workplace. You just have to watch the news to hear almost every day how much work mental health is deteriorating. Both removing the taboo and helping EMPLOYERS to understand is so important. Despite mental health not being a new thing, it is still (whether consciously or unconsciously) not deemed as important as physical health. This might be because people simply don't understand how seemingly small things to some can be huge, distressing mountains to others. I feel supporting our male colleagues is especially important, because males are less likely to speak out when they need help. We don't want to be seen as weak, feeble; we don't want our value to be diminished and find ourselves left behind because people are too busy to care. I'm proud of BEN.