Stress a ‘major’ issue for automotive industry

A new survey from bodyshop charity partner Ben has identified stress as a major issue affecting employees in the automotive sector.

Ben has released the results of the survey to mark National Stress Awareness Day.

A total of 70% of respondents to the employer survey said stress had most affected their employees’ health & wellbeing – particularly those in the manufacturing and retail sectors. This was also reflected in the latest employee survey, with 57% saying they are stressed at work, 47% are stressed at home and 35% are stressed at work and home.

In the employer survey, respondents were also asked to spontaneously mention issues most likely to impact automotive businesses over the next five years. The top three issues mentioned were skills shortages (38%), Brexit (26%) and technological changes (23%). These issues have undoubtedly had an impact on the stress levels of those working in the automotive industry.

Rachel Clift, health and wellbeing director at Ben, said: “This National Stress Awareness Day, we felt it was important to share our latest survey results, which highlight that stress is a significant issue for automotive industry employees.

“We want to make a positive difference to the health & wellbeing of those who work in the automotive industry. Through our annual surveys, we listen to automotive industry people and employers to aid our understanding of health and wellbeing issues they are facing. This enables us to provide the right support to meet those needs. From partnering with automotive employers, we put our learnings into practice by developing relevant training and workplace initiatives.

“I encourage employers to read our survey results and our first whitepaper, Mental health in the automotive industry: moving up a gear. Both pieces offer important insights into the health and wellbeing of the automotive industry and provide practical advice and support on how best to support employees. As always, our free, confidential support is readily available to anyone who works or has worked in the industry.”