Ben is marking National Stress Awareness Day (6 November) by sharing its latest survey results, which highlight that stress is a significant issue for automotive industry employees.
Research carried out by the charity found 70% of employers said stress had most affected their employees’ health and wellbeing – particularly those in the manufacturing and retail sectors. This was also reflected in the latest employee survey, with 57% saying they are stressed at work, 47% are stressed at home and 35% are stressed at work and home.
In the employer survey, respondents were also asked to spontaneously mention issues most likely to impact automotive businesses over the next five years. The top three issues mentioned were skills shortages (38%), Brexit (26%) and technological changes (23%); all of which can cause stress.
The results of the surveys were included as part of Ben’s first ever whitepaper released last month, called ‘Mental health in the automotive industry: moving up a gear’.
Rachel Clift, health & wellbeing director at Ben, said: “We want to make a positive difference to the health and wellbeing of those who work in the automotive industry. Through our annual surveys, we listen to automotive industry people and employers to aid our understanding of health & wellbeing issues they are facing. This enables us to provide the right support to meet those needs. From partnering with automotive employers, we put our learnings into practice by developing relevant training and workplace initiatives.
“I encourage employers to read our survey results and, (if you haven’t already), our first whitepaper. Both pieces offer important insights into the health and wellbeing of the automotive industry and provide practical advice and support on how best to support employees.
“As always, our free, confidential support is readily available to anyone who works (or has worked) in the industry. Employers can also refer employees who need support to Ben via a fast-track employee referral process. We’re here to look after the health and wellbeing of automotive people because they are the lifeblood of our industry.”
