Thinking about Becoming a PA

This can be a rewarding and varied job although each job will be as unique as your employer. If you are the kind of person who gets on with people, who is flexible and adaptable, who is competent in life skills and can maintain a steady temperament in the face of ups and downs, you may like to consider a role as a Personal Assistant (PA).

Experience and qualifications are good to have but usually not necessary. Because the job is one-to-one, it more often than not comes down to the personal relationship between PA and employer. A lot of learning is achieved on the job, but there is also the opportunity to bring the skills you already possess to the job (for example, can you drive, are you good at gardening, do you play sport, etc). Your employer may also be able to access training for you, e.g. in moving and positioning or first aid etc.

You might want to consider the hours and how they fit into your life – in particular consider if it involves split shifts which involves extra travel and therefore extra time.

Next steps

Think about the rate of pay and if your employer offers holiday pay and/or sick pay and a pension scheme.