Ben launches health and wellbeing report
Automotive charity Ben’s latest annual health and wellbeing report revealed that more than half of workers in the sector are suffering from stress and poor sleep.
The survey of more than 1,000 workers revealed that 57% of respondents said they are stressed, with 52% citing poor sleep as a significant issue.
Meanwhile, 42% reported being anxious, 41% said they suffer with low moods and 42% said they don’t take enough time out to relax.
The survey also found that poor work-life balance has increased by six per cent in the last year to 38%, with the issue most common for those working in showrooms, parts departments, and garages. Long hours, low staffing levels and high workloads are also growing concerns.
Overall, mental health scores have increased over the past 12 months with workers saying employers need to do more to support them.
Leaving the industry
Facing these pressures, one in four employees are considering leaving the industry, with half this number saying they are considering leaving because of poor mental health.
Rachel Clift, chief executive officer at Ben, said: “This year’s survey results shed light on the biggest health and wellbeing challenges facing our automotive family. Our annual surveys offer a valuable opportunity to listen directly to those within our industry, helping us better understand their issues so we can provide the relevant services and support for automotive people and their families.
“These insights also allow us to engage with employers and industry partners, so we can collectively work towards improving the resilience, wellbeing and motivation of automotive workers and the industry as a whole.”
Stress
She continued: “Stress remains the biggest issue for our automotive family, with many people citing they don’t feel they have enough time to switch off from work to rest and relax, as well as raising concerns over access to support.
“Money worries are also clearly continuing to impact on people’s lives, adding to these stresses. Unsurprisingly, the challenges we’re seeing are taking a toll on people’s mental health which is a continuing trend for our industry.
“Following these results, we want to ensure that everyone who works, or has worked, in the automotive industry knows we’re there for them, so please get in touch if you’re struggling by visiting www.ben.org.uk/gethelp. We also work closely with employers to support employees – you can read more in our full report, or by visiting www.ben.org.uk/business.”
