Resources & Training
Whether you’re considering becoming a PA, have years of experience, or fall somewhere in between, we have an abundance of resources and training opportunities to help you.
From induction planning to digital tools and certification, as well as health and safety training, employment guidance, and more, find all you need to gain confidence as a PA.
Helpful information
Information built for PAs old and new, designed to help you in your role.
Learn morePA Handbook
Developed by a collaboration of SDS organisations, including PANS, this is a comprehensive guide for existing personal assistants and those who are considering becoming one. The handbook is regularly checked to ensure all the information is up-to-date and relevant.
Visit the PA HandbookTraining Courses
Make sure your skills are up to date with online and regional training courses for PAs.
Learn moreWhat is SDS?
Self-Directed Support (SDS) is a person-centred and flexible approach to organising and managing people’s social care support.
What is Self-Directed Support?Training and career information
- Roles eligible for free PVG check and how to apply.docx (live.com)
- National plan sets out roadmap to improve training for Personal Assistant Employers and PAs – Self Directed Support Scotland | Self Directed Support Scotland (sdsscotland.org.uk)
- Careers in Care – Care and Support Work | A Question of Care
- SSSC Open Badges | Digital human rights principles – SSSC Open Badges
- Digital Health and Social Care programme review 2022 – Health and Social Care Alliance Scotland (alliance-scotland.org.uk)
- Free Online Social Care Courses (alison.com)
- Introduction to Social Care – Online Course – FutureLearn
- The Care Certificate Self Assessment Tool (skillsforcare.org.uk)
- IE-funding-application-form-2022-23.docx (live.com)
- SSSC Open Badges | Discover digital – SSSC Open Badges
- Community Brokerage Bite Sized Information
- Community Brokerage FAQs
- GrowBiz | Home
- The PA & PA Employer Handbook
- SSSC Codes of Practice for Social Service Workers and Employers.pdf
- UK training and development | Ayrshire Independent Living Network (theskillsnetwork.com)
- Accredited Training Courses | enable Pathway (enable-pathway.com)
FAQs
Answers to our most frequently asked questions
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. Ask your employer before starting any work for them.
There are no formal qualifications to become a PA. Some roles require specific qualifications, such as dementia care. First aid training is also highly recommended if you’re administering medication, for example.
In a more general sense, all PAs need to be flexible, caring, and good at communication. If you have a good sense of humour, that will definitely help, too!