The guide for people who are, or are thinking of becoming, a Personal Assistant

If you are a Personal Assistant in social care in Scotland, or are thinking of becoming one, this Handbook will help you understand the role, your rights and responsibilities, and the support available to you.

Becoming a Personal Assistant (PA) means taking on a unique role, supporting someone to live the life they choose and work towards the things that matter to them. PAs often describe the role as some of the most fulfilling work they have done, working directly with an individual to help them achieve their goals and personal outcomes.

PAs are employed by a wide variety of people, including older people, disabled people, people with mental health problems, people with learning disabilities, and parents or carers of children. Their employers will have been assessed as needing support to help them achieve their personal outcomes and live as independently as possible.

There are no formal training requirements for becoming a PA, and people can bring a wide range of skills, experience and backgrounds to the role. Employed PAs have the same employment rights, responsibilities and benefits as other employees.

The relationship between a PA and their employer is highly valued and is an important part of what makes the role distinctive. Every PA role is different because it is shaped around the individual employer, what matters to them and the support they need. A PA’s own experience can also bring real value to the role. Communication, flexibility and the ability to listen are often among the most important skills, and it is rarely simply a job of routines.

Above all, being a PA means respecting the right of every person to lead their own life, make their own choices and have their voice and opinions heard.

Support for Personal Assistants in social care in Scotland

The PA Handbook is designed to give you a good understanding of the role, but you can also go straight to topics that interest you. You can find guidance on your employment rights, or training and development, and support available to Personal Assistants. Take a look inside to get started, or ask our SDS AI Assistant Clara any question you might have.