Testimonials

Eleni’s story as an Individual Employer:

Initially it was a bit daunting employing PAs however once I’d got the paperwork and systems in place, such as employment contracts and payroll, everything was a lot easier. And I am so glad I did it now – being able to employ who I want, when I want and, importantly, being able to ask them to do particular tasks in the way I’d like them done makes such a difference to me.

This word “personalisation” is sometimes meaningless in social care, however, employing PAs illustrates how personalisation is meant to be as I have the choice and control in what work my PAs do with me.

Being an Individual Employer:

I tend to find my PAs by searching on indeed. They are a diverse mix of individuals, and I get on well with them all. I love being in a position to direct my own support to meet my changing needs and interests. Every morning and evening my PA’s support me with my personal care and meal preparation. Each day is different, as they help me achieve my goals and do the things I enjoy and going out for long drives in the countryside is a firm favourite.

It can occasionally be tricky when the PAs are on holiday, but the direct payment works flexibly, and they generally work well as a team to fill in the gaps.

Best part of having personalised care by employing PAs:

I would recommend employing PAs to anyone looking for personalised support at home because you are your own boss, without anyone telling you what to do.

My Individual Employer Experience by Zahid

I am an Individual Employer (IE) who employs Personal Assistants (PAs) to support me to live the life I want to live. I have shared my story over the phone using the UK relay service, writing my responses with my feet. Thanks to UK Relay, I can call people myself and I no longer have to wait for others to do it for me. This is one of the three things that has revolutionised my life in the last 10 years. The second thing is the personalised care package and support network I have. My network consists of 5 or 6 PAs and my amazing family and friends. The third thing is my electric wheelchair which has given me the freedom to go out on my own for the first time in my life.

I think I get on with everyone I meet. I am sociable, I love spending time with family and friends or sharing jokes and having a laugh. I absolutely love the freedom of managing my own support. I get the help I need without anyone telling me what to do which is immensely liberating.

My Personal Assistant Experience by Ellen

I’ve been a Personal Assistant (PA) throughout my adult life, from a second job to my main career. I’ve worked with children with autism, adults with Tourette’s, and wheelchair users, gaining varied experience.

I started as a teaching assistant and later worked as a PA for children after school. I would take them to places like the cinema or restaurants, helping where parents couldn’t due to other responsibilities.

After a break to raise my family, I worked in a children’s home and later as a PA for a woman with Tourette’s. She struggled with tic attacks after meetings, so I helped with tasks like getting her to work, preparing for meetings, and taking her on scenic lunch breaks. The Access to Work fund paid for my assistance.

I highly recommend this role. It doesn’t feel like work when you build a meaningful relationship with someone. I love being a supportive figure, offering comfort, confidence, and motivation. It’s like working with friends or family, and it’s deeply rewarding.

My advice: Be friendly and approachable. One of my employers values me as a friend, not a carer. It’s a privilege to get paid to be someone’s friend, and it’s fulfilling to know that you make a real difference in their life.

My Personal Assistant Experience by Amber

I’m in my early twenties, studying for a master’s in psychology at the University of Sheffield, with flexible hours that allow me to work part-time. The Personal Assistant (PA) role complements my studies and provides valuable work experience.

I got my first PA job through word of mouth. While attending the Mencap & Gateway youth clubs, I was asked by a parent to support her son, helping him stay active and develop confidence. Since then, I’ve taken on a couple more clients, including a girl my age, with flexible hours for activities like walks, café outings, or movies.

I also work with a young man for 10 hours a week, helping with tasks like shopping or exercise. My psychology degree has been useful, and as someone with autism, I relate to the challenges my clients face, which allows me to offer better support.

Though I didn’t have formal training, I’ve learned a lot on the job and my personal experience with neurodiversity has been invaluable in providing tailored, person-centered support.

Top tips for becoming a PA: Listen, be open to learning, and respect individual differences. Take a relaxed, non-judgmental approach, and set boundaries to maintain a balance between friendship and professionalism.

The best part of the job is the variety. I love being active and involved in the community, which is much more rewarding than an office setting.