Understanding Our Ageing Population in the East Riding

The latest Older People, Diversity and Inclusion insight, produced as part of the East Riding Health Needs Assessment, provides a valuable overview of the challenges and opportunities facing our communities.

The East Riding is home to a growing older population, with more than a quarter of residents now aged 65 and over. This is higher than both the regional and national average and continues to rise as more people choose to move into the area later in life.

While the area is not particularly diverse in terms of ethnicity or language, it is important to recognise that smaller communities and individuals with protected characteristics can often experience greater inequalities. In rural and coastal areas especially, access to services, support networks and inclusive provision can be more limited.

The report highlights clear inequalities across the region. In more deprived areas, people are more likely to experience long term health conditions and poorer outcomes, often from a younger age. Alongside this, social isolation remains a significant concern, with thousands of older people living alone, particularly in coastal communities.

As people age, the likelihood of living with a disability increases, and many experience more complex health needs. The number of older people with learning disabilities is also expected to rise, with evidence showing this group faces poorer health outcomes and higher levels of avoidable mortality.

All of this points to increasing pressure on health and care services, as well as housing, transport and wider community support. There is also a clear need for better data and continued engagement with communities to ensure services are inclusive and responsive.

At HEY Smile Foundation, we recognise the importance of this insight and continue to work alongside communities to ensure lived experience helps shape future services. This work is vital in building a more inclusive system that works for everyone.

The VCSE sector plays a crucial role in supporting our ageing communities, often reaching people in ways that statutory services cannot. From tackling social isolation and loneliness to providing activities, advice, transport and practical support, your work helps older people stay connected, independent and well for longer. 

We know there is a wealth of support already happening across our communities, and we want to help make this more visible. If your organisation delivers services, activities or support for older people, we encourage you to share your offer directly with us.

This will help us better connect people to the right support and ensure that no one is left behind.