Knowing Who Your Employer Is

Make sure that you know who your employer is, whether this is the person you are supporting or their parent or Guardian.

Your Rights and Responsibilities as a PA

Find out what your rights are as an employee, and what your responsibilities are when working as a PA.

Induction for PAs

What can be included in an Induction when you start a new job, so you can start to familiarise yourself with the role of a PA and what you employer expects of you.

Developing Your Relationship With Your Employer

Why it's important to develop a positive working relationship with your employer, which builds trust, openness and flexibility.

Managing your Working Relationship

As a Personal Assistant you have a unique relationship with your employer. You’re supporting them to do the things they’re not able to do and although this can feel like a personal relationship, it’s not. Remember you’re the employee and you need to remain independent and professional. 

There is Free Support Available for PAs

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Anyone who is a PA, or thinking about becoming one, can access free help, guidance or support. Find out more about what's available.

PA Employer Responsibilities

As a PA, it can be helpful to know what your employer's responsibilities are when it comes to following the law and good practice as an employer. 

Minimum hourly rate for PAs

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Each year, the Scottish Government sets the minimum hourly rate of pay for Personal Assistants. This article explains what the current national minimum rate of pay for PAs is.

National Minimum Wage and Statutory Payment Rates

The National Minimum Wage rates apply to Personal Assistants who support children, or those employed privately by their employer. This article details the rates which apply from April 2024.

Adult Support and Protection

PAs have responsibilities for preventing harm to vulnerable people, which could mean their employer, and should report their concerns. This article tells you when and how.

Child Protection

Find out what your duties are as a PA, to protect children who are at risk of abuse.

An Introduction to Self-directed Support (for PAs)

A basic introduction to what SDS is, how you can access support and the 4 options of SDS

The Role of the Local Authority and ILF Scotland as Funders of Self-directed Support

Find out more about the role that Local Authorities (councils) play in Self Directed Support, about the Independent Living Fund (ILF) Scotland, and about people who fund their own care and support.

Payroll Services in Scotland

Employing a PA brings with it certain legal and financial responsibilities. Therefore, PA employers may use a payroll service to help them, for example, calculate how much tax and National Insurance their PAs should pay.

Pensions for Personal Assistants

Information about pensions for Personal Assistants, including when you may be eligible for automatic enrolment in a workplace pension.

Disclaimer

Please note that the information contained in this Handbook is provided for guidance purposes only. Every reasonable effort is made to make the information accurate and up to date, but no responsibility for its accuracy and correctness, or for any consequences of relying on it, is assumed by Self Directed Support Scotland or any other contributing party.

The information does not, and is not intended to, amount to legal advice. You are strongly advised to obtain specific, personal and professional advice from a lawyer about employment law matters, or an accountant/ tax specialist about taxation matters, and from HMRC and your insurers. You should not rely solely on the information in this Handbook. Support organisations listed in this Handbook can help you find appropriate sources of advice.