Independent SDS Information and Support Services

There are a number of organisations that provide a range of information, advice and support to Personal Assistants (PAs) across Scotland. Some of these are specifically focussed on PAs needs whilst other are more generic for any worker.

Independent SDS information and support across Scotland

The Scottish Government funds local Independent Self-directed Support (SDS) Information and Support organisations in all 32 Local Authority areas in Scotland. Their role is to provide free information and guidance at any stage of the SDS process, often supporting people who have become PA employers for the first time. They will also provide a certain amount of support to PAs as well. So if you have a question about something, they might be able to give you an answer or signpost you to someone who knows this.

To find your local SDS Information and Support service, you can do a search on the SDS Scotland website here: https://www.sdsscotland.org.uk/

Just use the Find Help button in the top right corner to do a search for the area you’re looking for.

PA Network Scotland

There is one specialist PA organisation working across Scotland, dedicated to supporting the PA workforce. They are:

The PA Network Scotland
The WEA
118 – 128 Hill Street
Kilmarnock
KA3 1JL
Tel: (01563) 522551
Email: info@panetworkscotland.org.uk
Website: https://www.panetworkscotland.org.uk/

What the PA Network Scotland can do:

Networking events – for PAs from all over Scotland to meet each other
Online training based on learning needs identified by the PAs
Space, both online and offline, for PAs to discuss their needs and share their experiences
Personal Assistant Network Scotland is a place where PAs can talk about their concerns, get the answers they need and have their voices heard.
ID badges for essential workers

Online SDS forum

SDS Scotland host an online forum dedicated to discussions around Self Directed Support. It’s free to join and you can use the forum to ask questions, share information or start a conversation on something of interest to you. You can access the Forum here: https://forum.sdsscotland.org.uk/

PA Employer Handbook

There is also an online PA Employer Handbook linked to this handbook, that contains information for anyone who is thinking of becoming a PA employer, as well as for more experienced employers. This covers areas, such as the recruitment of PAs, managing staff, training and contracts. You can access the PA Employer Handbook here: The PA Employer Handbook – The PA & PA Employer HandbookThe PA & PA Employer Handbook