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How is Loneliness Impacting the UK Car Industry? – Insights for Loneliness Awareness Week
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How is Loneliness Impacting the UK Car Industry? – Insights for Loneliness Awareness Week

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Discover why 31% of automotive workers feel lonely and how Ben supports staff during Loneliness Awareness Week.

Ben is urging the UK automotive sector to "come together" and look out for one another during Loneliness Awareness Week.

Loneliness Awareness Week – What It Means for the Automotive Sector

Organised by the Marmalade Trust, Loneliness Awareness Week runs from 15 to 21 June and is the world’s largest campaign aimed at sparking conversations and building connections around loneliness. For a workforce that often works long hours in busy workshops and showrooms, the week offers a timely reminder to check in with colleagues.

Key Findings: One‑Third of Automotive Workers Report Loneliness

Ben’s latest research reveals that 31 % of people employed in the automotive industry have experienced loneliness. This figure highlights a significant, yet frequently hidden, challenge for many staff members across dealerships, garages and component manufacturers.

Support Services Available to Automotive Employees

The charity behind Ben is promoting its free, confidential helpline, which is open Monday to Friday, 08:00‑20:00. The service is available to anyone currently working in, or who has previously worked in, the automotive sector, as well as to their families. Callers can reach the team on 0808 131 1333 or visit www.ben.org.uk/gethelp for more information.

Ben’s Pop‑up Pub ‘The Benevolent’ at the UK Garage & Bodyshop Show

Earlier this month Ben took its pop‑up pub concept to the UK Garage & Bodyshop exhibition at the NEC in Birmingham. Named The Benevolent, the temporary venue gave attendees a relaxed space to stop, talk honestly and feel part of a supportive community.

Ellen Plumer, Head of Awareness & Experience at Ben, explained: “The Benevolent really struck a chord at the show. People told us, again and again, how much it meant to have somewhere to stop, talk honestly and feel part of something. That response is shaping our thinking.”

Why Early Intervention Matters

Rachel Clift, Chief Executive Officer of Ben, added: “Loneliness is rarely just loneliness; it often sits alongside stress, money worries, low mood, sleep problems or relationship strain. Whatever someone is facing, they do not have to face it alone, and reaching out early can make all the difference.”

Clift encourages anyone struggling to use the helpline or the wider wellbeing services, emphasizing that help is available not only for staff but also for their families.

How You Can Get Involved

During Loneliness Awareness Week, Ben invites automotive professionals to join the conversation, share their experiences and learn about upcoming community initiatives at www.ben.org.uk/community. By fostering open dialogue, the industry can reduce isolation and improve overall mental health.

The post Ben calls on car industry to come together during Loneliness Awareness Week appeared first on Car Dealer Magazine.

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