Getting started as a Personal Assistant

Employed PA

• The person requiring support (or whomever manages their SDS Budget) is the employer.
• PA is hired under an employment contract.
• The employer has legal responsibilities like paying tax, NI and providing a safe working environment.
• Employer usually arranges PVG, however it is not requirement and you may need to apply directly.

Self-Employed PA

• The PA works for themselves and provides support as an independent.
• May work with multiple clients
• Invoice for services and manage own tax and records.
• Buys own insurance
• Must register with the HMRC as self-employed
• Have to join the PVG Scheme directly and be able to provide a certificate to clients upon request.

More information

Here’s just some of the care you could be asked to provide.

• Personal care (showering, toileting, dressing)
• Support with meals (cooking, assistance with eating)
• General cleaning duties
• Accompanying the employer to their chosen activities or hobbies within the community (attending college, meeting friends, taking part in local groups)

The PA is directed by the needs, wishes and interests of their employer and this is usually stated on job vacancies or in interview discussions. All PAs should be given a written statement that states out the terms and conditions of their employment.

More information

There are no formal qualifications that you need to be a Personal Assistant in Scotland. Some values and skills may help in this role, such as:

• Having empathy, respect and patience
• Reliability
• Being committed to equality and diversity
• Interpersonal skills
• Be able to communicate effectively

Having a driving license and business insurance is also beneficial in this role, as some employers will need their PAs to drive rather than take public transport.

More information

It is the employers responsibility to ensure their PA’s receive the training required to ensure they do their job safely. They should also cover the costs – as this is usually included in the SDS budget.

Some training recommended for you to complete are

• Moving and Handling
• Safe Administrations of Medicines
• First Aid
• Infection Control
• Food Hygiene

Visit our training page for links to online resources

You have the same rights as any employee. Including:

• To be treated with respect
• Fair notice of ending employment
• A safe working environment
• Holiday entitlement and days off

Holiday requests should be agreed between PA and Employer. When possible, unless it is an emergency, this should be a minimum of 2-4 weeks in advance. This allows for replacement support to be ready.

Your employer is legally required to carry out a risk assessment to identify any risks to your health and wellbeing and how these will be managed.

More on your rights: Your Rights as a PA – The SDS Handbook

MyJobScotland has a dedicated page for Personal Assistant vacancies. We also encourage employers to send us job adverts to upload on our websites.

Facebook groups have also been highlighted as a great avenue for PAs to find vacancies in their local area or advertise their services.

You need to make sure your employer is registered as an organisation with Disclosure Scotland to secure your PVG.

If you are employed, your employer should request a PVG application form be sent to you to complete.

You should submit this with proof of ID and the fee if necessary. It is not a legal requirement for your employer to pay the PVG fee.

More information: PVG Scheme

If you’re self-employed, you’ll need to register with HMRC for self-assessment.

If you have a contract, you’re more than likely employed, if not, you may be classed as a casual worker.

We are!

PANS is a support organisation created specifically for Personal Assistants in Scotland. We’re here to help with any questions, queries and concerns you have regarding your job role.

With our membership, you can also apply for Unite the Union and access discounts for insurance.