WARRINGTON Borough Council and Disability Partnership joined forces to recognise the contribution of hundreds of Personal Assistants supporting disabled and elderly residents across the borough.
Warrington Borough Council marked National PA Day yesterday, Friday, by celebrating the contribution of Personal Assistants (PAs) who help disabled and elderly residents maintain their independence and enjoy greater choice and control over their lives.
The council highlighted the importance of Personal Assistants, with this year’s National PA Day theme, “Wearing Many Hats”, recognising the diverse responsibilities and skills involved in providing personalised support.
Personal Assistants are employed directly by individuals who need support, rather than being provided through traditional care services. Many are employed using Direct Payments, which enable people to receive an agreed amount of funding from the council to arrange and purchase their own care and support.
This approach gives individuals greater control over who supports them and how that support is delivered, allowing arrangements to be tailored around their personal needs, preferences and lifestyles.
The role of a PA can be extremely varied, from helping someone get washed, dressed and ready for the day, preparing meals and supporting shopping trips, to accompanying people to social activities, work, education, holidays and days out.
The council says Personal Assistants play an important role in helping residents achieve their goals, remain connected to their communities and live as independently as possible.
Councillor Tony Higgins, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, said: “PAs play a vital role in helping people live independently, achieve their goals, and stay connected to the people and communities that matter to them.
“National PA Day provides an opportunity to recognise and thank the many Personal Assistants who make such a positive difference to people’s lives across Warrington. The impact they have is significant. They help people maintain their independence, achieve their goals and stay connected to their communities.
“Do you have a caring personality? Are you looking for some flexible work and a way to support our residents? Becoming a PA may be for you – and I would urge anyone who is interested to find out more.”
Disability Partnership also plays an important role in supporting people who receive Direct Payments and the Personal Assistants they employ.
Its Chief Executive, disability champion Dave Thompson, says he understands the importance of the service from personal experience.
He said: “Speaking from personal experience, I know the value and the huge difference that having a PA can make to the lives of disabled and elderly people, and their carers and families.
“I am extremely proud of the work we do with hundreds of people who receive Direct Payments and the hundreds more that they employ.”
National PA Day took place yesterday (Friday, November 13), with the “Wearing Many Hats” theme reflecting the adaptability, commitment and wide-ranging skills required of those working in the role.
The council and Disability Partnership are encouraging anyone interested in becoming a Personal Assistant, or seeking information about training and employment opportunities, to find out more.
Anyone working as a PA in Warrington, or interested in opportunities, can contact Disability Partnership on 01925 240064 or email info@disabilitypartnership.org.uk.
