Shropshire Council

PA FAQs

What kind of relationship should/can I have with my employer?

As a personal assistant you have a unique relationship with your employer and at times it can feel like a friendship. However, the relationship should always be professional. There are no standards or codes of practice for personal assistants, but it may be useful for you to look at the Dignity in Care website, and the code of conduct on the Skills for Care website. You should discuss your relationship with your employer.

Do I have to have my own insurance?

It's the responsibility of your employer to have insurance. The types of insurance they're likely to have are public and employer’s liability insurance. However, if you're using your car in relation to your employment you'll need to ensure your car is insured for business use. Please note: if you're self-employed you'll be required to have your own insurance.

What happens if I'm ill?

As an employee you may be entitled to statutory sick pay, the details of which should be included in your employment contract. Your employer should have something in place if you're unable to work and for planned holidays. You should speak to your employer if you're not sure about this. Find out more about statutory sick pay on the Gov.UK website.

Who's responsible for my health and safety?

All workers are entitled to work in environments where risks to their health and safety are properly controlled. Under health and safety law, the primary responsibility for this is down to employers. You also have a duty to take care of your own health and safety, and that of others who may be affected by your actions at work. You must co-operate with employers and co-workers to help everyone meet their legal requirements. If you have specific queries or concerns relating to health and safety in your workplace, talk to your employer.

If you think your employer is exposing you to risks, or isn't carrying out their legal duties with regard to health and safety. If you have a complaint, please contact the Health and Safety Executive.

Can I work for more than one person?

Yes. You could choose one employer where you pay your tax and national insurance contributions. However, it would be best to tell your current employer so they can make sure they follow any regulations, like the Working Time Directive.

My employer finds it difficult to give me holidays - how do I find cover?

That depends on what your employer wants to do. Sometimes employers could ask you to find cover, but it's not your responsibility. You can and should say no if you're unable to do this. If you do know of someone who would cover holidays it remains your employer’s responsibility to ensure this person is interviewed and suitable for the work, and to be given a contract.

What do I do if I think someone's being mistreated?

Each local authority has a policy which helps the public and other professionals know what to do if they suspect an adult or a child is being mistreated. This is usually called safeguarding and you can find out more from our 'Concerned about someone?' page. It is a good idea to familiarise yourself with what safeguarding is, and how to report suspected abuse.

For more information, take a look at our 'Keeping Adults Safe in Shropshire website.

What hours can I expect to work?

Your working hours will be decided by your employer and will be set out in your contract of employment. This can range from a few hours a week to a full working week. Quite often employers are looking for some flexibility within an agreed number of hours.

Will I have to sort out my own tax and national insurance arrangements?

No. You'll be employed directly by your employer who will sort out your pay, tax, national insurance and pension contributions. Some employers use a wages/payroll agency/bureau to sort out your pay every month.

What do I get paid?

Your employer will agree with you the rate of pay and how often you'll be paid (for example, monthly or weekly). However, the employer will be made aware of minimum wage requirements by us.

Who pays me?

Your employer will be responsible for paying you, however they can choose to do this through a payroll service.

Where can I find work as a PA?

You can register as a PA on a local PA Noticeboard and view adverts of people looking for PA.