A groundbreaking initiative targeting the UK dealer groups has been launched by BEN to increase the charity's funding in a consistent and simple way.

To keep BEN running costs around £11m a year with over 86% of all funds spent directly on care and support. The ongoing impact of the economic downturn means that many more of our industry colleagues are likely to face a challenging time and BEN is always on hand to provide much needed care and support. Developing a regular and significant income stream is a priority for BEN and will allow the charity to offer more support and build reserves to balance out periods of economic hardship.

Each of the UK automotive industry's many sectors contribute to BEN. The largest single-sector contribution comes from the vehicle manufacturers and importers who pay a fixed amount to BEN for each car registered. Schemes like this are vital to BEN as they allow the charity to accurately forecast their income also work well for the donors as they are directly linked to sales.

David Main, BEN's Chief Executive commented;
"BEN is the charity for people in your industry, and their dependents. For us to be effective, it is vital that you and those who work in your businesses know about BEN and the help we provide. This new initiative will help us reach out to more people and ensure the services we provide meet their needs."

Nigel Williams, BEN's Head of National Development said;

"Dealers backing BEN provides a unique opportunity to support your industry charity in a very simple way, allowing you to get on with the business of running Dealerships while helping BEN to support your staff and their immediate families when they need our help most."

Recently the Contract Hire and Leasing sector launched a similar scheme based on the volume of vehicles sold through auction. Donations are set at approximately £1 per car and all administration is handled by the auction house, free of charge.

It is hoped that by working together, with the support of all of the key industry media partners, the retail sector will be encouraged to sign up to the Dealers backing BEN scheme.

By agreeing to donate just £1 from the sale of each car through auction, it is estimated that between them, the largest retail groups could raise over £500,000 every year for BEN. By deducting the donation from the sale price of each car, the net cost to the dealer will be less after taking into account VAT calculations. Over 500,000 people associated with the retail sector are eligible for BEN's support. Help is required to ensure that BEN has the funds to get this message to them and to provide the care and support that can make a real difference.

If you would like to sign up for Dealers Backing BEN, call Nigel Williams on 07850 485836 or email nigel.williams@ben.org.uk