Becoming and working as a PA

As a PA, you’ll work alongside the person you support, respecting their needs, choices and goals and helping them live life their way.

Your role will be shaped around what matters to them.

If you’re working as a PA or thinking about becoming one, the PA Handbook from Self-Directed Support Scotland offers guidance for your role.

What does a PA do?

Depending on the person you support, your role could include:

cooking, cleaning and other tasks at home
shopping
booking and attending appointments
supporting someone to take part in social or leisure activities
personal care, such as washing and dressing
supporting someone with medication where appropriate training has been provided

The person employing you should explain the tasks involved when you apply for or interview for the role.

What skills do I need?

You do not always need formal training or previous experience to become a PA. The training you need will depend on the support you provide. Finding someone you can work well with is also important.

Useful qualities include:

good communication and listening skills
kindness and compassion
patience and understanding
flexibility
respect for other people's values and beliefs
a desire to support someone to live the life they choose

Who might employ me as a PA?

You may be employed directly by:

the person who needs support
their carer
their parent or guardian

Some PAs work on a self-employed basis, contracted directly by the person receiving support. Rights and responsibilities vary depending on the employment arrangement.

See more information on:

Who can help me get started as a self-employed PA?

Business Gateway Highland offers free, practical business advice and support to help you get started as a self-employed PA, from planning your business to managing your finances.

Finding PA work

You may hear about PA vacancies through word of mouth or find them advertised in shop windows, the local press and local social media pages, such as Facebook.

You can also search:

Do PAs need to register with the SSSC?

PAs are not required to register with the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) or work towards an SVQ in Social Services and Healthcare.

Are PA jobs full-time?

Not necessarily. PA roles can be full-time, part-time, temporary or long-term. Hours vary depending on the person's support needs and the PA's availability.

Where can I get support once I am working as a PA?

Personal Assistant Network Scotland is a free membership community for PAs, offering support, resources, and guidance.

Personal Assistants (PAs) and PA employers

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

As a PA, you’ll work alongside the person you support, respecting their needs, choices and goals and helping them liv...
Employing a PA

Employing a PA can give you greater choice and control over who provides your support and how that support is arrange...
Training and learning for PAs and PA employers

If you’re a PA, training can help you develop the knowledge and skills you need for your role.
Advice and support for PAs and PA employers

Whether you’re a PA or a PA employer, you do not need to manage everything on your own.