The UK’s drinks industry is thriving, and working within it can be very rewarding. As existing distilleries and bottling halls grow and new ones open their doors, enthusiastic and reliable people are being welcomed into the sector. The industry offers fantastic scope for career progression, and great opportunities for networking. However, roles within the drinks industry, just like all other sectors, do come with their challenges.
It’s important to have support in place for emergency situations that may affect your working life. We’d like to share information on how to access aid for those working within the drinks industry.
Connect Appointments is proud to work with the BEN – the Scottish drinks industry charity.
Who is the BEN?
Under various names, the BEN has been in operation since 1964. The charity is led by 10 directors from different areas of the sector who work throughout Scotland. They volunteer to help raise funds, manage the charity, and support the delivery of services for their beneficiaries.
It’s their goal to assist people of all ages who have worked within the licensed trade for at least three years on a full-time basis. It offers financial, social, and emotional support to those who need it.
Connect Appointments have subscribed to the Society’s funds, and as a result, hold a Bronze Membership with the BEN.
How do they help?
Workers within the drinks industry like Bottling Hall Operatives, Forklift Drivers, and Production/Warehouse Operators can apply to the BEN for help in times of need. The charity provides its beneficiaries with discretionary financial support or one-off grants for emergency situations, for example:
- Mental health issues
- Support in covering utility and household bills
- The provision of home furnishings
- Funding for injury rehabilitation equipment
- The supply of mobility and transport solutions
HIT Scotland
The BEN also provides scholarships through HIT Scotland. HIT (Hospitality Industry Trust) Scotland is a charity that was first established in 1994 that aims to support those working and studying in the hospitality industry in Scotland. They offer a tailored learning experience for those within the industry to broaden their skills and experience.
Scholarships provided by the BEN and HIT Scotland have aided workers within the drinks industry to learn new skills and gain experience within the sector, enabling them to develop their skills and careers.
The BEN asks those who have taken advantage of the scholarships in turn show support back to the drinks industry; this can be achieved by speaking at events, helping provide staff or food and drink to events, mentoring potential scholars, or providing prizes for auctions and raffles.
Pop and Prosecco!
In May of this year, the BEN hosted a fabulous Pop and Prosecco night, and the Connect team attended along with some of our clients to celebrate the women working within the drinks industry.
We enjoyed dinner, drinks, and some dancing together at Oran Mor in Glasgow’s West End, but most importantly, we helped raise funds to continue supporting workers within the sector.
It was a brilliant night, and we were excited to be contributing to the BEN’s mission, as well as getting the chance to network with women within the industry.
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