Make sure that you know who your employer is, whether this is the person you are supporting or their parent or Guardian.
What you can expect from your employer in terms of information, training and support and what your employer can expect from you in terms of your approach and way of supporting them.
What can be included in an Induction when you start a new job, so you can start to familiarise yourself with the role of a PA and what you employer expects of you.
Why it's important to develop a positive working relationship with your employer, which builds trust, openness and flexibility.
As a Personal Assistant you have a unique relationship with your employer. You’re supporting them to do the things they’re not able to do and although this can feel like a personal relationship, it’s not. Remember you’re the employee and you need to remain independent and professional.
Anyone who is a PA, or thinking about becoming one, can access free help, guidance or support. Find out more about what's available.
When someone becomes a Personal Assistant employer they will also have certain responsibilities, like recruiting people fairly and not putting their employees at risk in the workplace. There are many more responsibilities but also support for meeting them.
Each year, the Scottish Government sets the minimum hourly rate of pay for Personal Assistants who support adults. This article explains what the current national minimum rate of pay for PAs is.
The National Minimum Wage rates apply to Personal Assistants who support children, or those employed privately by their employer. This article details the rates which apply from April 2024.
PAs have responsibilities for preventing harm to vulnerable people, which could mean their employer, and should report their concerns. This article tells you when and how.
Find out what your duties are as a PA, to protect children who are at risk of abuse.
A basic introduction to what SDS is, how you can access support and the 4 options of SDS
Find out more about the role that Local Authorities (councils) play in Self Directed Support, about the Independent Living Fund (ILF) Scotland, and about people who fund their own care and support.
Employing a PA brings with it certain legal and financial responsibilities. Therefore, PA employers may use a payroll service to help them, for example, calculate how much tax and National Insurance their PAs should pay.
Information about pensions, automatic enrolment in workplace pensions, and where to go for more information and help.