Frequently asked questions about BEN

What is BEN?

BEN, the automotive industry charity was established in 1905. BEN offers practical help, support, advice and friendship to more than 15,000 people in the UK.

Which industries does BEN cover and who is eligible?

One in 10 people are eligible for help as employees or dependants of employees, both past and present, of the motor, cycle, motorcycle, commercial vehicle, agricultural engineering industries plus all associated trades, organisations and industries.

How many residential centres does BEN have and where are they based?

BEN has four residential centres which provide a range of varying levels of care which can be tailored to individual needs:

• Alexandra House in Southport, the only BEN centre located in a town.
• Birch Hill in Norham, Berwick-upon-Tweed.
• Lynwood - the first BEN centre near Ascot.
• Town Thorns was purpose-built and opened in 1991 and is found between Coventry and Rugby, in the heart of Warwickshire.
• Arthur Wilson House is the UK's first workplace day care centre and is based in Coventry.

Does BEN organise events?

BEN organises corporate and local events during the year. For the latest information please see our Events section.

How can I raise money for BEN?

You can take part in one of BEN's fundraising events or organise your own event. To give you some ideas on what you can do and to help make any event easy, safe and successful, we have designed a fundraising kit, but do contact us if you need further help.

How can I volunteer for BEN?

There are so many ways in which you can help as a volunteer and these are all outlined in our Volunteer section. Even if you only have two hours a month we would love to hear from you.

How much money does BEN need each year to operate?

It costs BEN £11 million to maintain its standard of care but it will need even more financial help in the future as demand grows from within the industry.

How can I find out if I am eligible to receive help from BEN?

If you are currently employed, within one of the industry sectors, then you may wish to make contact via your HR department. Alternatively, you can speak confidentially to a member of our welfare team by calling our helpline on 01344 876770.

How will my donation be used?

During 2006/07 84.5p out of every £1 went directly towards the needs of our beneficiaries and residential centres. We constantly strive to reduce our administration and overheads to ensure your donation makes a real difference.

Who is BEN's Patron?

HRH Princess Alexandra, The Hon Lady Ogilvy, KG, GCVO

Who are BEN's Management Board & Trustees, Directors and senior staff?

A full list of these individuals can be found in BEN's Annual Review and also listed on the BEN Management page in the About section.

How old is BEN?

BEN began in 1905 when Arthur James Wilson created an organisation to help improve the lives of tens of thousands of people into the future - BEN.