In what has been a challenging year for many, Ben, the automotive industry charity, has launched its 2022 Health and Wellbeing survey, to gain a better understanding of how it can support those in need.
The survey aims to take the emotional temperature of the industry and gain insight into the health and wellbeing issues, as well as any future concerns, that are affecting members of the automotive community. Feedback of the conditions of the last 12 months is valuable to the charity, allowing it to develop new programmes, offer services and revise its work to better suit those that need it.
It is crucial that workers, business owners and families receive the right care and support at a time when for many, financial pressures are increasing, and health worries still linger as the COVID-19 pandemic remains present. Ben’s services are available to those who do or have worked in the automotive industry, and the charity encourages those finding it hard to offer their feedback, as well as to get in touch.
The survey is confidential and takes just 10 minutes to complete. It consists of a series of simple questions relating to physical and mental health and the issues that people are facing in the workplace and the wider industry.
You can take the survey by clicking here.
Health and wellbeing survey builds on last year
The results of the 2021 Health and Wellbeing survey showed that 94% of 94% of automotive workers were personally affected by a health and wellbeing issue over the 12-month period.
Stress was the most common issue in the 2021 survey, followed by anxiety and poor sleep. Only 32% of respondents said they had sought out support with their health and wellbeing from a colleague, manager or HR department.
Anxiety and depression issues remain more common in the automotive industry than in the rest of any UK working population. However, 60% of automotive workers say they are happy in their jobs.
“Our Health & Wellbeing survey is crucial as it gives us an overview of what is really going on in the automotive community, and allows us to focus our efforts on helping people in the right way with the right resources,” commented Rachel Clift, Health & Wellbeing Director at Ben. “We rely on this information to ensure support is getting to people who need it the most. It also enables us to develop our products and services in line with this fast-changing industry landscape.
“We want to encourage as many people as possible to take part in this year’s survey. It will help us to get a better understanding of how people are feeling right now, and, in turn, that enables us to get the best possible help to as many people as we can. Just 10 minutes of your time will make a massive difference to our research, and ultimately to the health and wellbeing of our automotive community.”
Clift recently participated in an episode of the Auto Repair Focus Podcast, speaking about how Ben could help those who are finding it difficult to manage their finances during the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.
Ben is there for those who work, or have worked, in the automotive industry and their family dependents. If you would benefit from some support or if someone you know might need them, get in touch via their free and confidential helpline: 08081 311 333 or use the webchat at www.ben.org.uk. You can also access Ben’s out of hours text support line by texting BEN to 58258.
For employers who would like to find out more about working in partnership with Ben, or who would be interested in discussing Health & Wellbeing support for employees contact Rachel Clift, Health & Wellbeing Director at Ben: Rachel.Clift@ben.org.uk.
Editor’s comment
The automotive industry is particularly challenging right now. Carmakers and suppliers are struggling with profitability over the lack of certain parts required to make cars and component, together with increased energy costs. This is putting pressure on workers, and business owners, who may find themselves also struggling as the problems move down the chain.
This Christmas and New Year period is supposed to be one of joy, but for thousands, it highlights financial and personal problems, laying them bare to see. Depression can kick in, anxiety can build, and everything that goes along with those mental health issues can begin.
But know this. You are not alone. Help is at hand, and it is a strength, not a weakness, to ask for it. Just talking to someone can make a difference. If you are struggling, or you know someone who is, reach out to Ben on the contact details above. Trust me, it helps.
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