It is very important that the recruitment of P.A.’s is done well.  This way you can be sure you are employing the best person to meet your needs.  Large organisations who employ all the time sometimes get it wrong, so don’t be too despondent if it doesn’t work out the first time.  It’s good experience. It may seem a bit daunting and the whole process may, at first….

An Employer support service can support you with every step of this process, from writing job descriptions to sending application forms, or you may choose to have help from family and friends. Also, there may be a local peer group. Where members have varied experiences of recruitment, and will be able to offer support and advice. At the back of the book are a list of useful phone numbers and addresses of organisations that can offer advice and support.

 Process of Employing a Personal Assistant

Once you have had confirmation from Social Services of the full amount of your Individual Budget you can begin the recruitment process. 

These are some of the things which you will need to consider. 

·        Follow a recruitment a checklist (such as this)

·        Obtain public and employers liability insurance. The recommended company for this is FISH insurance. They have an understanding of Individual employers. You can contact them direct or an employer support service can provide you with a form once you have received your budget.

·        Establish how many hours are to be worked by the PA’s

·        Cost out your package e.g. set wages etc – see example.

·        Draft the Job Description

·        Advise on payroll services and systems

(agency, book-keeper, self, and have relevant paperwork

·        When and how will staff be paid

(In arrears, weekly, monthly)

·        Contract of employment

(terms and conditions of employment-pay, probation period, holiday etc)

·        Interview venue and date – the recruitment service may have a list of accessible premises which you may wish to use.

·        Draft advert and consider where to place.

(Closing date, where to reply to, box no.?)

·        Send out application forms with Job Description and information about the job. You may choose to use a recruitment service who can do this on your behalf.

·        Shortlist

·        Interview

(have questions prepared, support at interview?)

·        Write to unsuccessful / successful candidates.

·        Obtain references (optional) and if satisfactory contact new employee with start date

·        Discuss, agree and sign contract.

·        Consider back-up arrangements.

·        Think about supervising P.A.’s work and training requirements.  (You can use the local Skills for Work to access training).