The PA Employer Pathway

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Explore the path to becoming a PA Employer. This is broken down into 7 easy steps.

The Recruitment Process

When a PA Employer decides to recruit a Personal Assistant, there are a number of things they need to think about and plan for. So for example, it will be important to have a clear job written description for the PA, a plan to advertise the job and a plan to cover the interviewing of potential PAs. It is important that the expectations under employment law are followed during the recruitment process.

The Role and Responsibilities of a PA (for PA Employers)

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The Personal Assistant (PA) role involves much more than personal care. There are many potential roles and responsibilities for a PA which should be specified prior to recruitment.

The Role of Information and Support Organisations

Local Independent Support Organisations provide free information and guidance at any stage of the SDS process, often from people who have experience of being a PA employer. Using a local organisation like this can help employers understand the process, prepare for their next steps and access services that make being a PA employer easier.

The Role of Local Authorities (Councils)

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Local Authorities (councils) have an important role in making sure that PA Employers have the information and support they need to meet their needs.

The Social Model of Disability

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This article explains the Social Model of Disability, and how disability is defined by the barriers created in society that exclude and discriminate against people, thus 'disabling' them.

Training for PA Employers

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Find out what training is available to PA Employers to support you in your role.

Using this handbook

A quick guide to this resource

Your Agreement with Your Local Authority (Council)

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When you decide to employ Personal Assistants, your Council will ask you to sign an agreement. Find out what is included in this agreement and how to check it covers everything you need.

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.