Ben responds to cost-of-living strain with holiday support scheme

As cost-of-living challenges persist, automotive industry charity Ben has launched the third year of its summer support programme, aimed at helping families manage rising seasonal costs. The initiative offers financial assistance and emotional support to those struggling with essentials, from food and bills to school uniforms and childcare, alongside opportunities for family outings to create lasting memories.

Holiday pressure highlights ongoing need

Ben’s latest data underscores the continued impact of economic strain on automotive workers. Findings from the charity’s annual wellbeing survey revealed that:

• 1 in 6 workers have skipped meals
• 1 in 5 are dealing with debt
• 1 in 4 of those considering leaving the sector cite financial stress

With the summer holidays often bringing added pressure for parents, Ben is encouraging those in the automotive industry—both current and former workers, as well as their families—to seek help if needed. The support programme is designed not just to provide immediate financial relief, but to enhance wellbeing through quality family time.

Growing demand for financial help

Over the past year, Ben has managed more than 15,000 helpline enquiries and awarded over 700 financial grants. Rachel Clift, Ben’s CEO, stressed the importance of early outreach:

“Cost-of-living pressures continue to hit home, and our latest health and wellbeing survey found that stress and financial concerns remain among the biggest challenges for our sector.”

Ben’s broader mission is to help its “automotive family” thrive, focusing on the full spectrum of wellbeing—emotional, financial, physical and social. The summer initiative aligns with this approach by ensuring that families can enjoy meaningful experiences even amid economic difficulty.

The BMTA Trust has also stepped in this year with a £3,000 contribution to strengthen Ben’s holiday support efforts.

How to access Ben’s services

Ben offers free support to all those working—or who have previously worked—in the automotive sector, as well as their dependents. Support can be accessed via:

• Phone: 08081 311 333
• Webchat and online resources: www.ben.org.uk
• Financial wellbeing tools: www.ben.org.uk/money
• Email updates and tips: www.ben.org.uk/signup

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Tagged with: cost-of-living, automotive industry support, Ben charity, financial wellbeing, summer holiday pressure, industry wellbeing

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