An induction is where you learn about your job, like where to find things you will need and what is expected of you. It usually happens when you first start in your new role. See what can be covered in an Induction process and what to expect when starting a new role as a PA.
Some PA roles require training but every role is different. Sometimes that training must be done, for example to prevent injury if your employer needs help with moving, and in these cases your employer is responsible for ensuring you do it.
Risk Assessments are designed to protect health and safety in the workplace and prevent injury or risk of injury to PAs and the person they provide assistance to.
The PA Network Scotland offers ID badges, approved by the Scottish Government, to all registered PAs, in order to provide them with a recognisable form of ID.
Open Badges are free digital certificates that support ongoing learning and evidence of professional development in your role as a PA. PAs can earn Open Badges from the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) and many other social service organisations when they complete a course and pass the assessment.
Organisations that PAs can go to for additional information, advice and support on a range of issues
There are a number of UK wide organisations that provide information and advice on employment matters.
Sometimes when you think you've been treated unfairly, the good legal advice is important. You should always try to resolve an issue in the workplace if you can, and support networks can help. When this process fails you may need to find employment legal advice.
Advocacy is a way to help people have a stronger voice when talking about their needs so they can have as much control as possible over their own lives. Independent advocates don't work for the council and put your needs first and details on how to find one near you are here.
Mediation is a voluntary process led by an impartial third party to help reach an agreement on a dispute in the workplace.
Trade unions are groups of employees who join together to protect and improve their working conditions. A membership subscription will be payable to join.
Employing a PA brings with it certain legal and financial responsibilities. Therefore, PA employers may use a payroll service to help them, for example, calculate how much tax and National Insurance their PAs should pay.
Find out more here about where to look PA vacancies.
Hints and Tips on how to prepare for an interview.
How a Job Centre Plus work coach can support you to move from benefits into paid employment when you start work.
It is possible for a PA to be employed by a family member to provide care and support to them. However, this is still seen as an 'exceptional circumstance', which means it wouldn't normally happen unless it is for specific reasons.
Knowing your rights as a carer when you are employed
You may be working as a Personal Assistant and also support someone else in your life, unpaid - like a family member or friend. This article explains what support is available to you if you are an unpaid carer.
Information about pensions, automatic enrolment in workplace pensions, and where to go for more information and help.
Information about what jury service involves and how to apply to be excused from jury service if you are a PA or a PA Employer.