Ben is today launching its summer families project to support current and former automotive workers, who are facing record high costs for food, fuel and energy. 

Now in its fourth year, Ben’s summer families project provides practical, emotional and financial support to help automotive families manage the extra costs of the school holidays, including food, household bills, school uniforms and memorable days out together.

The programme launches as money worries continue to drive demand for Ben's services. In the past year, Ben's helpline responded to more than 14,000 enquiries, with money worries among the leading reasons people sought help. The charity also awarded more than 600 financial grants to those facing financial hardship last year. Since launching in 2023, Ben's summer families project has supported 80 adults and 111 children, providing more than £22,000 in financial assistance. Funding has grown from £1,700 in the programme's first year to almost £15,000 last year, reflecting increasing demand for support.

Rising living costs and financial pressures can also take a significant emotional toll, leading to anxiety, low mood, feelings of helplessness and strain on relationships. With around three-quarters of adults reporting concerns about the cost of living Ben is here to support automotive industry families through financial and emotional challenges. 

To access support: www.ben.org.uk/summersupport 

The BMTA Trust is bolstering Ben’s summer support project this year by providing £3,000 towards activity costs.

Families who have received Ben’s support recently said:

  • “This is the most amazing thing anyone could do to support us and I’m genuinely so emotional about this. Forever grateful to you all.”
  • “Thank you again for everything, it really has had a massive impact and taken a big weight off my shoulders.”
  • “I am truly grateful. You can’t imagine how worried I was. This was totally unexpected and came as a great help and surprise.”

Julie Hayes, Specialist Services Lead at Ben, said: “Times are tough for many automotive people right now. The summer holidays can be a wonderful opportunity for families to spend quality time together, but for many, they also bring added financial pressure. With household budgets already extremely stretched, the cost of food, childcare, travel and preparing children for the new school year can quickly become overwhelming.

“We know that money worries are one of the biggest challenges facing people in the automotive industry. Whether you need immediate financial support, help managing money worries or someone to talk to, Ben is here to help. We encourage anyone who is struggling to get in touch as early as possible. Reaching out for support can make a real difference, and we’re here to help people navigate difficult times and look forward to a more positive future.”

Katie Williams, Development & Grants Manager at BMTA, said: “One of the greatest strengths of our automotive community is the way we look after one another when times are tough. The summer holidays should be a time for families to make happy memories together, yet for many they bring additional financial pressures and impossible choices. We are delighted to stand alongside Ben in making a real difference to the lives of people across our automotive community." 

How to access Ben’s support

Ben’s helpline and services are available to anyone working, or who has worked, in the automotive industry, plus their family dependents. Visit www.ben.org.uk/summersupport or call 08081 311 333. 

Can you support a family this summer?

Can you donate to Ben to support a family this summer… 

  • £10 could pay for a new piece of school uniform  
  • £25 could pay for a new PE kit 
  • £30 could pay for a picnic for a family of four.

Donate today via www.ben.org.uk/summersupport/#donation.