Personal Assistant

Job description

A Personal Assistant (PA) in social healthcare plays a vital role in supporting individuals—often those with disabilities, long-term health conditions, or age-related needs—to live independently and with dignity. Here's a detailed breakdown of the role:

🧑‍⚕️ Core Responsibilities

Daily Living Support

Assisting with personal care (washing, dressing, toileting)

Helping with mobility and physical activities

Preparing meals and supporting nutritional needs

Health & Medication

Administering or reminding about medication

Accompanying to medical appointments

Monitoring health conditions and reporting concerns

Household Tasks

Cleaning, laundry, and shopping

Managing bills and correspondence

Organizing home adaptations or equipment

Social & Emotional Support

Providing companionship and emotional reassurance

Supporting hobbies, interests, and community engagement

Facilitating visits with family and friends

Advocacy & Empowerment

Helping individuals express their needs and preferences

Supporting access to services, benefits, and rights

Encouraging independence and confidence

🧩 Key Skills & Qualities

Skill/Quality

Why It Matters

Empathy & Patience

Builds trust and emotional safety

Communication

Ensures clarity with clients, families, and teams

Reliability

Provides consistency and reassurance

Discretion & Respect

Maintains dignity and confidentiality

Flexibility

Adapts to changing needs and routines

Basic Health Knowledge

Supports safe care and early issue detection

📚 Training & Qualifications

Not always mandatory, but beneficial:

NVQ Level 2 or 3 in Health and Social Care

First Aid and Manual Handling

Safeguarding and Mental Health Awareness

On-the-job training is common, especially for roles funded through Direct Payments or Personal Budgets.

🌍 Work Settings

In the client’s home

In supported living environments

Accompanying clients in the community

Occasionally, in coordination with healthcare professionals