BEN launches new campaigns

BEN, the automotive industry charity, is to launch a series of far-reaching new campaigns designed to raise awareness of key health and wellbeing issues, encouraging people to access its 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.

‘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,’ explained Yvonne Hignell, BEN’s Support Services Director.

She continued, ‘Employers often struggle with how to support employees who are experiencing problems, so it’s important that they know we are here to help them too. We’re focusing on being mentally fit for this campaign but we can also help with financial issues, relationship breakdown, health problems and any other challenges people are facing.’

People calling BEN’s free and confidential helpline will reach sympathetic, experienced Support Officers who offer access to a range of services designed to deliver long term solutions. BEN can provide counselling, access to bereavement support and cognitive behavioural therapy as well as advice on where to go for help and support.

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. Contact BEN’s marketing team on 01344 298 122 or visit ben.org.uk/mentallyfitworkplace for more information.