Students show enthusiasm for much-needed social care role
Shared with thanks to South Lanarkshire Council for the article and photos below.
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Opportunities have been boosted for people needing tailored day-to-day support after students gave an enthusiastic reaction to learning about a little-known social care post.
A series of presentations at South Lanarkshire College explained the role of the Personal Assistant and the ways in which it can be a perfect fit for students.
Personal Assistants play a vital role in helping people live independently and make everyday choices and, although the role remains unknown to many, it is in growing demand.
That momentum is being strengthened after social care students at South Lanarkshire College showed strong interest in becoming Personal Assistants (PAs) following the series of presentations about the role and the difference it makes to people needing this type of individualised support.
The sessions highlighted how PA roles can offer flexible, paid work alongside study, while supporting people to live full lives at home and in their communities.
The initiative reflects South Lanarkshire Council’s commitment to working closely with South Lanarkshire College to support the development of the local social care workforce, including through its work within the South Lanarkshire University Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP).
Personal Assistants are paid carers who work directly for an individual who has been assessed as needing support. They work with people with a wide range of needs, including disabilities, mental health issues and learning disabilities, as well as with older people and families, providing support in the home or community.
The role is rooted in the Independent Living Movement, which champions disabled people’s right to choice, control and independence in everyday life.
The presentations were organised by Anne Broderick, Fieldwork Manager with the HSCP, who said demand for PAs continues to outstrip supply.
She said: “We’ve heard from many people who feel a PA would be the right option for them but who are struggling to recruit.
“By engaging directly with social care students, we can raise awareness of a role that works well for both the individual needing support and the PA.”