How Summers Motors is improving mental health support

Mental health and wellbeing is an issue that effects the automotive industry as much as any other. It’s why charities such as Ben deliver a range of help, advice and services to help people who are struggling. But the work to help friends and colleagues who are struggling isn’t just a job for charities, everyone in sector needs to be part of the plan.

It’s why Summers Motors’ Director and Bodyshop Manager Ian Summers is working hard to make sure his business isn’t just a place of work, but a place where, if people are finding life difficult, they can find help.

“Last year I was asked to join the board of the National Body Repair Association (NBRA), which was an honour and such a proud personal moment. One of the first things I tried to raise was the level of support around mental health which the NBRA are already looking into. A focal group comprising of the NBRA, the Health and Safety Executive, the automotive charity Ben, , Stephen Whitton from MENable, and Steve Silverwood from ECA Business Energy, are looking at many initiatives to raise awareness, offer support and help where it’s required. With what the world and our industry has faced over the last few years, looking after people has become such an important factor of having a successful business.”

Mental health and wellbeing issues can arise for a variety of reasons and it’s important to understand why someone maybe struggling. It’s something Summer’s is very aware of:

“Supporting and understanding people’s work/life balance is key, as well as looking after their needs within the working environment,” he says.

Worrying about the future can be a key trigger for anyone, no matter what industry they work in, and given what the world has thrown at us in recent history – a pandemic, economic uncertainty and war – people could be forgiven for feeling the pressure.

Summer’s is confident his business is ready for whatever comes – reassuring for employees – and knowing a business is prepared for challenges is important for an employee.

“This year and beyond hasn’t really changed from a planning prospective, as we have a very strong idea of what is needed to survive and stay ahead which comes down to a basic formula of investing. Being able to put vehicles back on the road correctly and safely needs the right equipment, along with highly-trained technicians, more than ever before and that means making sure we are aware of new technology and repair processes coming through. Being aligned with the vehicle manufacturers certainly helps. It does all come at a cost, though - and often not a small one - but it must be allowed for,” he says.

Expansion is often thought of as a way to stay successful, but for Summers, that isn’t necessarily the route he wants to take.

“One of the questions we get asked a lot is are we going to open up another site somewhere or why we haven’t and part of me does wonder if we had, where would we be today? Would we be a multiple site bodyshop or small group? I have to be honest, though, and say I believe one of our strongest attributes is that at heart we are a very small family business that cares. Not only for our customers, but our loyal team; some of whom have been with us for more than 30 years,” he says.

Mental health and wellbeing is an industry-wide issue that requires more discussion, Summers Motors is one of the businesses that recognises that and is working to make sure staff are supported when they need it. But more businesses will need to take a similar approach if the sector is to really help everyone who’s working in it when they’re struggling.

Automotive charity, Ben provides support for life to anyone who works or has worked in the automotive industry with a range of services.

If you or someone you know is struggling - you can chat with Ben online, or call its free and confidential helpline on 08081 311 333 (Mon- Fri 8am - 8pm).