Ben Sets Stage For Key Fundraising Events To Boost Automotive Industry Support

Published: Thursday, July 4, 2024, 15:36 [IST]

Ben, the automotive industry charity, has announced details about its two major events for the year: Ben’s Big Breakfast and Ben Ball. These events aim to raise £150,000 to support individuals in the automotive sector who are facing difficulties or crises.

Following three successful years, Ben is launching full details for Ben’s Big Breakfast 2024. This event encourages the automotive community to organise breakfast gatherings during World Mental Health Day week from 7th-13th October. The charity's research indicates that 1 in 4 people in the automotive industry struggle with mental health issues, and 29% experience loneliness. This event offers a chance for colleagues to connect over breakfast.

Automotive companies and groups are invited to host breakfast events during this week. Participants can bring, bake, or make food items and sell them to raise funds. Matt Wigginton, Director of Partnerships, Engagement & Income at Ben, stated: "Breakfast is definitely the best meal of the day and our Big Breakfast is an easy way to raise funds, as well as being a great opportunity to get people together. Having a chat over a cuppa can make such a difference - some people are suffering in silence right now, thinking they have no-one to turn to. So get involved, have some fun and connect with your colleagues, all while raising vital funds for your charity."

This year's Ben Ball will feature a 1920s Great Gatsby theme supported by AutoTrader. The entertainment will be provided by the Electro Swing Project, known for their captivating performances on London’s West End. The show will include aerial performers, acrobats, dancers, and West End singers.

Matt Wigginton expressed his excitement about the event: "We’re very excited to announce our entertainment for Ben Ball 2024, which will embrace a roaring ’20s theme and is set to be a night of glitz, glamour and vintage charm. The Electro Swing Project wowed our Ben Ball audience back in 2020 with an incredible Greatest Showman performance, so we can’t wait to welcome them back to Ben Ball 2024 to perform their Great Gatsby show! It’s going to be an incredible night, so don’t miss out!"

Ben aims to help more people each year and plans to triple its reach by 2030. Events like these are crucial for achieving this goal. "Ben is on a mission to help more people each year; three times as many by 2030. That’s a bold ambition, but one we know we can achieve with the help of our industry," said Wigginton.

Supporting Those in Need

The charity provides life-changing support through free and confidential online self-help services, helplines, and tailored assistance based on individual needs. When any member of the automotive family faces challenges or crises, the community comes together to support them.

For more information about Ben's initiatives or how you can participate in these events, visit www.ben.org.uk.

Contact Leila Moss-Kelly at [email protected] or call direct at 01344 298 126 for further details.