A Personal Assistant (PA) can give you more flexibility and control over your care.
Some of the benefits include:
- Choosing care times that suit you
- Receiving care from the same person or small team
- Having staff with experience of your care needs
- Being able to request specific training for your PA
- Building a consistent, trusted working relationship
Learn more about Personal Assistants in Care.
Using direct payments for a Personal Assistant
If you use direct payments to employ your own carer, you become an employer.
You will need to:
- Pay tax and National Insurance (PAYE)
- Provide holiday and sick pay
- Have employers’ liability insurance
- Follow employment law
You can get help from payroll companies, accountancy services or a Support Broker to manage this safely.
If your current care is arranged directly by Trafford Council (not through a direct payment), you need to switch to direct payments to use a Personal Assistant.
Trafford PA Web
Trafford PA Web is an online platform for PAs and people looking for care and support. Visit Trafford PA Web.
On the platform, PAs can register their availability, skills, experience, and the areas of Trafford they want to work in. Similarly, people receiving direct payments can advertise their vacancies for a PA and connect with local workers.
If you prefer not to employ someone directly, you can use a home-care agency.
More information
For questions about Trafford PA Web, or how to start using a Personal Assistant, email directpayments@trafford.gov.uk or call 0161 912 2701.