Wick drop-in event to showcase social care PA jobs
Opportunities to work in “very rewarding” social care roles in Caithness will be highlighted at a free drop-in event next month.
A personal assistant (PA) in social care is employed to help support people in various ways, such as practical tasks around the house or accessing activities in the community.
The drop-in event will take place on Thursday, October 10, from 10.30am to 2.30pm, at the Pulteney Centre in Huddart Street, Wick.
NHS Highland is collaborating with Community Contacts, Highland Council, the Personal Assistants Network Scotland and others in running it.
A spokesperson for NHS Highland explained: “This event provides the opportunity for those interested in becoming a PA to chat with organisations face-to-face and find out more about the role and what local opportunities are available. It’s also a chance for existing PAs and PA employers to get advice and hear from others about their experiences.”
Prior to the in-person event, two online sessions entitled Becoming a Personal Assistant in Social Care in Highland are being held to explain the role of a PA and how to get involved. These take place on Tuesday, October 1 (10am) and Thursday, October 3 (6pm) and last for an hour.
Leading the initiative for NHS Highland is Ian Thomson, head of service, quality assurance, adult social care.
He said: “The personal assistant role is as varied as the people who need support.
“No two people are the same and no two PAs or PA roles are the same either. The relationship between the employer and PA can provide great benefits for both parties. Trust, support, flexibility, choice and friendship can characterise the relationship on both sides.
“No formal training requirements are needed for a PA role but good PAs demonstrate clear communication skills, kindness and flexibility.
“Hours can vary and may suit a PA’s work/life balance very well. If you have some spare time and enjoy working with people then this type of job might be for you.
“Whatever your circumstances, we would be delighted for you to drop in for a chat and more information.”
Self-employed PA Lesley Thain said: “I have found it to be very rewarding as I am helping people live their best lives by staying in their own homes, building relationships with clients who can then be comfortable with you supporting with everything from personal care to going out for coffee.
“I find that by being a PA you can tailor your time around the individual and support the client to become independent and more confident after a fall or illness.
“In the beginning I was worried that I would not get enough hours for it to be sustainable. But since I have started I have never been out of work, and now also have three others working with me.
“I previously worked for a care company and found I was constantly feeling like I wasn’t able to spend enough time with the client, and I didn’t realise at the time just how stressed I was until I started working for myself.
“Suddenly I felt like I could enjoy my job again, having that cup of tea with someone who may otherwise see no-one else that day, and I began to see how something so simple can mean so much to my clients. I can honestly say becoming a PA has certainly been one of the best decisions I have made.”
PA employer Mandy Gillies said: “Lesley and her team always give high levels of care, empathy and compassion while caring for my mum. They are observant and insightful and can pick up any signs of deterioration in mum and would always let me know if she was in a low mood, more confused or more irritable than usual.
“They all have a cheery demeanour come what may, and this has a positive effect on mum, giving a bright start to her day.
“They are very reliable and flexible and would always accommodate any respite care I need. It is great to be able to get away knowing that my mum is well cared for.
“Lesley and her team provide exceptional care, both on an emotional and physical level, while always maintaining my mum’s dignity.”
There is no need to book for the event on October 10. People can drop in at the Smith Room in the Pulteney Centre any time between 10.30am and 2.30pm.
Those wishing to take part in the online events need to register beforehand via the Eventbrite website.
Anyone with questions can contact project officer Amy Scobbie on 07812 468704 or email amy.scobbie@nhs.scot
Participating services include Community Contacts, Self Directed Support Scotland, Personal Assistants Network Scotland, Highland Council, Highland Senior Citizens Network, Department for Work and Pensions and Citizens Advice Bureau as well as NHS Highland.
