Apply to become a personal assistant
Many people use their Direct Payments to employ a personal assistant to help them live independently.
A personal assistant, also known as a PA or support worker, is employed by someone who needs social care to enable them to live as independently as possible. They can help people to live as independently as possible by doing a range of tasks for them. This could include helping with personal care, social outings and community activities.
If you are interested in becoming a personal assistant, it will be helpful if you have some basic training or previous experience.
Finding employment as a personal assistant
The role of a personal assistant is varied, and no two jobs will be the same. You don't necessarily need any qualifications to become a personal assistant, however, an employer may ask that you have qualifications showing good English and numeracy skills or a social care qualification. Don't worry if you don't have these qualifications you can work towards them once you start the job.
The Personal Assistant Induction Training course gives an overview of the role of a personal assistant, and will cover topics such as safeguarding, infection control, Level 2 food safety and emergency first aid. To find out more about Personal Assistant Induction Training visit Training and employment in social care.
The course also includes a free DBS check and learners who complete the course will be given details on how to register as a personal assistant and search and apply for current vacancies.
Vacancies
You can find any current Personal care assistants jobs online. You can also sign up and employers can then invite you to view their advertisements if they feel you are suitable.
Advertising
If you would like to advertise your availability to Direct Payments employers, visit Locate: Advertising as a personal assistant to download the registration form. Once your information is added to Locate, interested employers can contact you. Please do remember if you are no longer available for further work you should remove yourself from this register.
Employee protection
Direct Payments provide the funding for individuals to arrange their own care package therefore any employment is with the individual or their representatives directly. The Direct Payments Team provide ongoing support to both employers and PAs but do not have employment responsibility.
If you have any issues with your employment as a PA, we would recommend you contact ACAS for legal advice. Their helpline number is 03001 231 100 or access their website at ACAS.
