As the economic slow down widens, the impact is rippling through almost every sector in the automotive industry. Falling sales are forcing many businesses to rationalise internal expenditure and with it's income being intrinsically linked to the industry's profitability BEN is also facing a challenge - it must sustain its fundraising income so that it can maintain its care and support to every individual needing its help.

Over 50% of the charity's income is generated through contributions made by corporate and individual supporters operating within the industry, and the charity now worries that this support may be amongst the first cuts to be made at the hands of what now seems like an inevitable recession.

Charles Davis, Director of Fundraising and Communications at BEN, commented, "The issues we are facing as an organisation reflect the issues being faced by many others in the wider industry. Like those other companies we are conscious of our expenditure but realise that as a charity we can't cut back on delivering care and financial assistance at a time where it is most needed. We also realise that it is essential to invest in spreading awareness of BEN amongst the industry so that everyone who may need our help knows about us and how to get in touch. To this end all of our fundraisers are focussed on sourcing new income streams and we are concentrating on ensuring that all our activities generate a comfortable return that can be utilised to support those in need."

Another issue facing the charity is that if the current market conditions persist or deteriorate further then it is likely to see more of our industry colleagues turning to it for support at a time when its income is under threat.

Christopher Macgowan, Chief Executive at BEN, commented: "This charity exists to provide care and support, it is not out to make a profit, but like any other business we need to protect our income to ensure its longevity. We have fixed and variable costs, and given the circumstances we are focussing our attention on reducing our already streamlined expenditure but I must stress that we will not compromise on the quality of care and support we deliver in achieving this. BEN is an extremely well run and professional organisation but much of our income is dependent on the performance of the automotive and related industries."

"We realise how hard it is becoming out there for many of our colleagues, and whilst we hope for the best we fear that we will see an increase in the numbers needing our assistance. These individuals need to know that we are here and ready to help when they need us too and therefore we are asking all companies to ensure their workforce are aware of BEN and the methods they can use to get in touch in times of need. We also ask that all those who still have it in their power to maintain their support for BEN and if it is possible to consider whether they can afford to increase it."

Editors' notes:

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.