The Role of Information and Support Organisations

Independent Support Organisations are organisations which can help people who are considering becoming a Personal Assistant (PA) employer. They also support existing PA employers throughout their role as employer. They can give information about direct payments and how to access them, as well as offer practical support about being a PA employer at a localised level.

Independent Support Organisations work alongside Local Authorities to support people accessing Social Care. Their purpose is to help people plan independent lives through what is sometimes a complicated process.

Using a local organisations like this can help employers understand the process and access services that make being a PA employer easier. We recommend that potential employers make contact as soon as possible using the support links included in this resource.

These are some examples of the support that might be available:

Information about the responsibilities of a PA employer
Help to understand and use local processes
Support with engaging an agency/provider
Payroll services
Financial management
Training on becoming a PA employer

These organisations use the experience of people who are PA employers to give information and support to people who are thinking about becoming a PA employer, to make sure they have all the information they need. Their staff and volunteers may have personal experience of care and support services. It is this experience which helps to inform the design and delivery of the support the organisation offers, leading to high quality, relevant and appropriate information and support.