BEN, the UK’s automotive and related industries charity, has published its Annual Review 2008/09.

The review shows the impact of the current economic climate on BEN, which relies heavily on the generosity of the beleaguered automotive industry for funding. It also focuses on the increased strain on BEN’s resources as more and more automotive industry people find themselves in need of help and advice.

BEN’s Chief Executive, David Main says of the report: “In 2008-09 the number of people turning to BEN for help rose for the first time in many years. Meanwhile, the automotive industry has suffered from reduced working hours and a fall in sales, which has impacted the income received by BEN from Payroll Giving and Performance Related Giving. However, we are grateful to the vast numbers of people who have stuck by BEN in these tough times enabling us to continue to help the automotive and related industries to provide care and support for employees and their dependants in times of need. We must also thank our staff for their flexibility and understanding, allowing us to reduce headcount and expenditure while still spending 86% of our income directly on care.”

To obtain a copy of BEN’s Annual Review 2008-2009, email your postal address to info@ben.org.uk or download a copy at www.ben.org.uk/userfiles/pdf/events/BEN-Annual-Review-2008-09.pdf.

BEN is the Automotive Industry Charity, the only occupational charity for those who work or have worked in the automotive and related industries. Founded in 1905, the Charity provides practical help, support, advice and friendship to more than 15,000 men and women and their families every year. In addition BEN provides a home to over 350 individuals who reside in one of its four residential centres in the UK and offers day care facilities at its centre in Coventry