May 2019

MAY 2019 AFTERMARKET 7 Ben has launched new online support to help automotive industry people who are struggling with depression. Around one in three people contact Ben’s helpline about their mental health issues, including depression and anxiety. Initial findings from Ben’s own upcoming 2019 automotive industry survey show that 22% of those who reported suffering with depression said it had the biggest impact on their health and wellbeing overall. Depression was also Ben’s second most visited topic online, after anxiety, with almost 16,000 visits last year. On Ben’s new dedicated webpages, people can find out more about what is low mood versus depression, how to cope and how to manage their mood, where to access support as well as a personal story from someone that Ben has supported through this particular mental health issue. For employers, Ben has put together an article on what to do if an employee is showing symptoms of depression or say they ‘feel depressed’. Rachel Clift, Health and Wellbeing Director at Ben, said: “If you’re struggling with depression or have a family dependent who is, Ben is here for you – you can visit our new online resources for more information and guidance or get in touch with us through our online chat or via our helpline if you need more support. We can support people with access to talking therapies and counselling, as well as life coaching and mentoring.” Ben launches new online support Trust My Garage TV ad A TV campaign promoting the Trust My Garage (TMG) Code of Practice is now running. The Independent Garage Association (IGA) launched the campaign as a way of driving customers to its independent garage members. The campaign is set to run for at least a year across a number of TV channels as well as social media. IGA Director Stuart James commented: “This campaign has been driven by our members who have been expressing concerns about consumer work provision for some time. “In the past year our research into garage work providers has led us to believe that these types of businesses will have a significant long- term detrimental impact on independent garages.” Stuart added: “Trust My Garage supports and enhances a garages own brand identity and does not sit between the garage and its customers, unlike third-party work providers. The Trust My Garage Code of Practice does not charge its members or their customers for this service – it’s a government-backed code for independent garages and a benefit of IGA membership that does not take a skim.” Garages can join the IGA and be part of Trust My Garage by calling 0845 305 4230.