Ben, the charity dedicated to supporting automotive industry workers, is inviting its community to take part in its annual Christmas Jumper Day this December. Alongside this, Ben has launched a special edition of Christmas cards to raise funds for those facing hardship or in crisis, with proceeds going directly to help struggling individuals and families in the automotive sector.
The Christmas Jumper Day event will be held on 13th December, although participants are welcome to pick any date in December to join the fun. The fundraiser encourages individuals and companies within the automotive community to don their best (or worst) festive jumpers for a great cause. Participants are asked to donate just £3 per person—the cost of a coffee—to raise crucial funds for those in need.
"Christmas Jumper Day is such an easy one to get involved in and will help your company get into the festive spirit—you could even give away prizes for the best (and worst) Christmas jumpers and raffle a Ben bear too," said Matt Wigginton, Director of Partnerships, Engagement & Income at Ben.
This is the perfect chance to bring colleagues together for a fun, festive activity while making a real difference to the lives of automotive families who are struggling during these challenging times.
This year also marks a significant milestone—35 years of Christmas card designs by renowned motoring artist Richard Wheatland. To celebrate, Ben is offering a special collection that includes Richard’s original card designs from 1989, 1990, and 1991, now considered vintage. Along with these classic designs, a brand-new card featuring an exclusive automotive theme has been released for 2024.
These beautifully illustrated cards are not only a great way to spread holiday cheer but also support those in the automotive industry facing tough times.
Ben is urging the automotive community to get involved in its festive fundraising efforts. By participating in Christmas Jumper Day and purchasing Ben’s Christmas cards, supporters can help those struggling to keep a roof over their heads, heat their homes, or put food on the table.
Wigginton added: "We are still seeing record numbers of people turning to Ben in desperation because they can’t afford the basics. It’s still really tough out there, and many people in our automotive family urgently need us. Together, we can make a life-changing, often life-saving, difference to the lives of our automotive family so please get involved today.”
In addition to fundraising, Ben is encouraging automotive workers to reach out if they need assistance. The charity provides confidential support for anyone who works or has worked in the automotive industry and is struggling, whether financially, mentally, or emotionally.
Ben’s free and confidential helpline is available at 08081 311 333, and support is also accessible via the Ben webchat at www.ben.org.uk. For those in immediate need, an out-of-hours text support line can be reached by texting BEN to 85258.
Together, the automotive family can make this Christmas brighter for those in need.
