Ben is responding to a growing need for mental health support in the automotive sector with the launch of a new digital platform offering a range of services.

The industry benevolent charity has launched a new online self-help asset via its new digital platform as well as telephone or face-to-face talking therapies and telephone-based life coaching in order to help employees who may be encountering difficulties.

Ben said that the growth of its breadth of mental health support and service provision has come in direct response to insights gained about the needs of automotive industry people.

“Mental health is the most common reason why people reach out to Ben for support”, it said adding that 52% of those who contacted its helpline last year did so due to concerns with their mental health.

Rachel Clift, Ben’s health and wellbeing director, said: “We’re delighted to be increasing and enhancing our mental health services for automotive people.

“Our new digital services will enable us to support even more people and the extension of our services will offer individuals more informed choice and control in how they receive support for their mental health.

“In addition to this, automotive employers can feel assured that their employees have access to a range of support options which are free and confidential.

“So whether you’re an individual struggling with your own mental health, or an employer worried about an employee, please don’t put off getting in touch with us.”

Ben’s new digital platform will support people with issues such as managing stress, anxiety and depression, as well as commonly associated issues like money worries or sleeping difficulties.

As the charity continues to transform its health and wellbeing services, it has plans to extend its digital platform to support people with their wellbeing, lifestyle and building personal resilience, with specific programmes including mindfulness.

In August last year Ben published its annual impact report which shows more than 3,000 people contacted its helpline during the year, and over 13,000 accessed online support content.

The charity also reported a 29% increase in the number of cases managed by Ben’s support services team. To read the full report, click here.

Meanwhile, Ben’s online self-help, provided through its website and via email, will continue to provide useful, preventative and relevant tips, advice and tools on topics including mental health.

Individuals can sign up at www.ben.org.uk/signup.