Ben highlights loneliness challenge

Automotive charity Ben is encouraging people across the sector to come together, support one another and seek help when needed as part of Loneliness Awareness Week (15-21 June 2026).

The charity has highlighted the impact loneliness continues to have on the automotive workforce, with its latest insights showing that 31% of automotive employees have experienced loneliness. Ben said the findings reflect wider challenges linked to isolation, emotional pressure and a lack of meaningful social connection.

According to the charity, many people working in automotive are balancing long hours, financial concerns and workplace pressures while lacking the friendships, support networks and sense of community that can help improve wellbeing.

Ben is urging automotive professionals to take simple steps to strengthen connections, including checking in with colleagues, starting conversations and reaching out for support when required.

The charity said many of the people it supports are seeking more meaningful human interaction beyond professional relationships. Ben has identified a growing desire for opportunities to connect with peers, share experiences, discuss challenges and build stronger community ties within the sector.

Earlier this month, Ben brought its pop-up pub concept, The Benevolent, to the UK Garage & Bodyshop Show at the NEC Birmingham. The initiative was designed to create a space where visitors could stop, talk and connect through informal activities and conversation.

Ellen Plumer, Head of Awareness & Experience at Ben, said “The Benevolent really struck a chord. 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.”

Rachel Clift, Chief Executive Officer at Ben, said “At Ben, we are here for the health and wellbeing of automotive people, for life. Loneliness is rarely just loneliness; it often sits alongside stress, money worries, low mood, problems sleeping or a relationship under strain. Whatever someone is facing, they do not have to face it alone, and reaching out early can make all the difference.”

Ben’s free and confidential helpline and wellbeing services are available to anyone who works, or has previously worked, in the automotive industry, as well as their families.

www.ben.org.uk/gethelp