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Spotlight on the Hidden Carers of the East Riding
Across the East Riding of Yorkshire, thousands of people quietly care for loved ones, neighbours, or friends — often without recognising themselves as unpaid carers. These individuals provide vital support that helps others remain safe and independent, yet many remain “hidden” and unaware of the help available to them.
Who are hidden carers?
Hidden carers can be anyone providing regular, unpaid support. You might be:
- Helping a partner with a long-term illness
- Supporting a parent with a disability
- Assisting someone with mental health needs
- Caring for a friend or neighbour
This care might include practical help with daily tasks, emotional support, managing appointments, or organising finances. While it’s often given out of love, caring can be physically and emotionally demanding — especially when combined with work, education, or family life.
How many unpaid carers are there in the East Riding?
Unpaid caregiving is more common than many realise. Based on local and national information:
- It’s estimated there are over 46,000 unpaid carers in the East Riding of Yorkshire.
- Census data shows more than 30,000 people reported providing unpaid care.
- However, only around 4,000 carers are currently known to local support services, suggesting many carers are not yet connected with support.
Why many carers remain “hidden”
Many carers do not identify themselves as such — they see what they do as simply part of family life. This can mean:
- Not knowing what support is available
- Feeling alone or overwhelmed
- Missing out on support services, benefits, or respite
- Struggling without acknowledgement or breaks
Recognising yourself as a carer is often the first step to support and wellbeing.
How to Get Support in the East Riding: If you are providing unpaid care, help and support are available locally. Here are ways you can access assistance:
East Riding Carers Support Service: A central service for adult carers providing guidance, information, and personalised support — including help understanding your rights, carers’ assessments, and local groups.
- Freephone: 0800 917 6844 or 01482 396500
- Email: ercarers@eastriding.gov.uk
- Address: East Riding Carers Support Service, County Hall, Cross Street, Beverley, HU17 9BA
- Opening hours: Monday–Thursday 9:30am–4:30pm; Friday 9:30am–4:00pm
You can also drop in without an appointment to speak with someone for advice or signposting.
Carer’s Assessments. You are entitled to a free carer’s assessment — whether or not the person you care for receives support. It can help identify what support would make your life easier and improve your wellbeing. You can request this through the Carers Support Service.
Young Carers Support. If you are under 18 and caring for someone, support and a young carer’s assessment can help with school, wellbeing, and balancing life alongside caring responsibilities.
Financial support. You may be entitled to Carer’s Allowance or other benefits. Local support services can help you check eligibility and apply.
Local Support Groups & Networks. There are local groups for carers and parent carers that offer connection, shared experience, and peer support. The council and partner organisations regularly promote groups and activities through newsletters and community listings.
Other Useful Contacts
Hull Carers Information & Support Service:
East Riding Council Online information
Your Life Your Way: Local adult social care support information
Carers UK (national support): Advice and information on benefits, work, wellbeing and more
You Are Not Alone
Hidden carers play a vital role in the wellbeing of our communities across the East Riding. You deserve support, recognition, and understanding — and there is help available to make caring more sustainable and connected.
Whether you’re just starting to realise you are a carer or you have been caring for years, reach out for support, connect with others, and take time for your own wellbeing. It could make all the difference.
