Motor industry charity Ben says there is still time for dealerships and sector suppliers to register and participate in Ben's Big Breakfast next week.

Ben's Big Breakfast week begins on Monday, October 10, which is World Mental Health Day, and the charity sees the friendly fundraiser as a superb way for dealers to support staff wellbeing, encourage employee interaction and to even get customers involved.

Participation is free - just register here with Ben - and businesses can encourage staff to bring, bake or make a delicious breakfast spread for anyone to enjoy in exchange for a modest donation.

The COVID pandemic left the UK automotive industry charity with a £1 million hole in its budget, and it relies on fundraising activities and generous donations to help ensure it can continue to provide its crucial services, which include guiding and supporting current and past automotive workers and their families through physical and mental illness, financial crises, work pressures, bereavements and relationship breakdowns.

In the summer when Ben announced the plan for Ben's Big Breakfast, its director of partnerships, engagement and income Matt Wigginton said: "The Big Breakfast is such a simple way to raise funds, but it’s also an important reminder to check in with our colleagues.

“Having a chat over a cup of coffee in the morning could make such a difference to someone’s day without you even realising it.

“Often, people are suffering in silence, thinking that nobody has noticed or cares about them. A small gesture like catching up over a cuppa could change that. It could be the first step to them opening up, or reaching out to Ben for help.”

Will, a sales executive at a large car dealership, was helped by Ben when the constant focus on sales targets left him suffering anxiety and depression, and when he had to take time off work his partner Pammy called Ben's helpline.

"I felt like I had someone in my corner at last! Will’s GP is lovely and supportive but we were limited by the support available through the NHS," said Pammy.

"The helpline team were brilliant – they worked tirelessly to find a counsellor to take on Will’s case. It was such a relief for me as I couldn’t bear to see Will suffer anymore. 

"The Ben team was always so understanding and gave us regular updates throughout the process."