ID Badges for PAs

Pre-Covid, Personal Assistants (PAs) did not have a nationally recognised form of ID to demonstrate proof of  employment as a key worker if and when required.

However, from March 2022, the Personal Assistants Network Scotland (PANS), has offered ID badges, approved by the Scottish Government, free to all PANS members.

PA ID Badges are available to all PAs currently working as a PA in Scotland. PAs will need to provide their Employer’s contact details for verification that they are working as PA. This information is not retained and will be deleted when a verification / reply has been received.

To Join the PA Network Scotland and apply for your free PA ID Badge, visit the PANS website.

Other benefits of ID badges for PAs include

  • Identifying you as a PA when you are accompanying your employer away from their home address
  • Evidencing entitlement to free or discounted companion tickets for leisure activities (eg. swimming or cinema), events (eg. conferences) or travel (eg. train or bus travel)
  • Access to other PANS benefits such as recognised discount cards, discounted union membership, insurance links, dedicated training workshops and offers
  • Increasing the recognition and awareness of the role of PAs.

Please note that a PA ID badge is optional – there is no expectation that all PAs have one.

Ordering your PA ID badge

A free PA ID Badge can be applied for only when joining the PA Network Scotland membership.

Apply for your badge on the PA Network Scotland website.

The application process involves:

  • Uploading a passport style photograph (head and shoulders), and giving:
  • Your name
  • Your home address
  • Your email address
  • Your employer’s name
  • Your employer’s contact details – for verification that you are working as PA. This information is not retained and will be deleted when a verification reply has been received.

Your free ID badge will come with a badge holder and a PANS lanyard, delivery will be via registered mail.

The application process is secure and fully GDPR compliant.

Membership of the PA Network Scotland

All PAs who join the PA Network Scotland will automatically be eligible for a free ID badge.

As a member of PANS, you will have access to resources, employment information, tailored training opportunities, news and events. The PANS website is designed to suit the needs of PAs and provide a platform where their voices, opinions and suggestions can be heard. PANS membership is free and helps and supports PAs across Scotland.

Next steps

Visit the PA Network Scotland website to become a member and get your free ID badge.

Part of
Last Updated
28 May 2024
First Published
19 April 2022
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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.