This year Carers Rights Day takes place on Thursday, 20 November and explores the theme of 'Know your rights, use your rights.'
Every day, around 12,000 people across the UK start caring for a loved one, whether that be a partner, a family member, or friend.
Many people do not consider themselves carers and are often unaware of their rights. East Riding of Yorkshire Council’s Carers Support Service wants residents to know and understand the support and benefits that are available to them.
There are many carers within the East Riding who come from all walks of life including young carers, carers from ethnic minority communities and LGBTQ+ carers.
Caring can be rewarding, but it can also be tough. No one should miss out on help that makes life a little easier. Whether caring full-time, balancing care with work and family, just starting out, or have been doing it for years, there is plenty of support available.
Your Rights as a Carer:
- Unpaid Carer’s Leave
Under the Carer’s Leave Act (2024), employed carers are entitled to one week of unpaid leave per year to provide or arrange care for someone with a long-term care need. This is available from day one of employment, can be taken flexibly for planned caring commitments and offers the same protections as other family-related leave.
- Ask Your GP to Identify You as a Carer
Your GP can record you as a carer on your patient record. This may give you priority for vaccines and other health campaigns. Speak to your GP for more details. - Free Flu Jab
If you’re the main carer for an older or disabled person, or receive Carer’s Allowance, you may be eligible for a free flu jab. Check with your GP or local pharmacist for more information. - Protection Against Discrimination
The Equality Act 2010 protects carers from discrimination or harassment because of their caring responsibilities. Other laws may also apply, including disability or sex discrimination legislation. - Request a Carer’s Assessment
If you’re aged 18 or older and provide regular unpaid care for someone aged 18+, you can request an Adult Carer’s Assessment to explore the support available to you.
If you, or someone you know is aged 18+, provide unpaid care and support and would like to find out more about your rights as a carer, or to request an Adult Carers Assessment, please contact The Carers Support Service.
To speak to a member of the team at the Carers Support Service, telephone using the freephone service on 0800 917 6844 or 01482 396500.
Alternatively you can email ERcarers@eastriding.gov.uk or visit the Carers Support Centre at County Hall, Cross Street, Beverley HU17 9BA, Monday to Thursday 9.30 am – 4.30 pm and Friday 9.30 am – 4.00 pm.
