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Personal Assistants (PAs) and PA employers

Personal assistants (PAs) support people to live independently and lead their lives in the way they choose.

Whether you’re thinking about becoming a PA, already working as a PA or employing someone to support you, you can find information, guidance and support here.

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How do PAs fit into self-directed support?

Self-Directed Support (SDS) gives people choice and control over support to meet their agreed needs and personal goals. Under Option 1 you receive a direct payment to arrange your agreed support. This can include employing a personal assistant.

Need help getting started?

Community Contacts is an independent Carr Gomm project offering impartial advice, information and support with SDS in Highland, including help for people interested in becoming a PA. It is funded by the Scottish Government’s Support in the Right Direction (SiRD) initiative.

Last updated: 4 November 2026