Ben, the automotive industry charity, has launched an equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) training course designed to help companies create more inclusive and supportive workplaces.
The four-hour course, which can be delivered face-to-face or online, covers how unconscious bias affects workplace culture and how diversity can be a driver of innovation and collaboration. Participants will take part in open discussions about the impact of EDI and explore practical ways to embed inclusive practices across their organisation.
The training forms part of Ben’s wider role in supporting people in the automotive sector to live healthier, better lives. Ben works with individuals and employers to improve mental health, physical health and overall wellbeing, offering both crisis support and long-term guidance.
Profits from course bookings will directly fund Ben’s free and confidential services, which are available to anyone who works, or has worked, in the automotive industry and their families.
Julie Hayes, specialist services lead at Ben, said:
“Inclusive workplaces promote mutual respect and belonging, helping employees feel valued, improving engagement and retention. Diverse perspectives fuel creativity, innovation and stronger decision-making, while improved cultural awareness enhances customer relations and reputation. In addition, proactive EDI training reduces the risk of discrimination claims and boosts overall business performance.”
The initiative comes as the automotive sector faces a dual challenge of attracting talent and improving retention in a competitive market. Inclusive and supportive workplace cultures are increasingly seen to build resilience and create long-term business benefits.
With more than 120 years of experience serving the industry, Ben is uniquely positioned to link workplace training with wider wellbeing services. Hayes added: “We’re best placed to support automotive workers, offering the training needed to help them live well and work well, as well as working closely with employers to build a resilient and motivated workforce.”
