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.

Next steps

Further information about local Independent Support Organisations is available in the resources below.

Part of
Last Updated
21 June 2022
First Published
28 March 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.