Working as a personal assistant (PA) for someone with a disability is a unique and rewarding role, but it's not always what people imagine when they think of care work. As a PA, my job isn't to "look after" Joan in the traditional sense but to help her remain as independent as possible, supporting her in a way that allows her to live life on her own terms.
When I first started working with Joan, I assumed I’d be doing a lot of things for her, but it quickly became clear that she values her independence above all else. Joan loves being in control of her day-to-day life and doing as much as she can by herself. My role, then, is more about facilitating her autonomy, whether it's measuring spaces in her home so she can order furniture or driving her to the shops. Joan tells me what needs to be done, and I make sure she has the support to do it.
I found this job completely by chance. It was advertised on Gumtree, and my husband spotted it. I had just retired, so it seemed like a perfect way to stay busy. I had never worked in care before, and I had no prior experience as a PA. But you don’t need to have a formal background to take on a role like this you just need to be caring, practical, and patient. It’s about understanding what the person needs and helping them get there without taking over.
On Saturdays, I spend the full day with Joan. The routine starts with taking her dog, Daisy, out for a run while Joan gets up. I’ll then prepare the house for her opening the blinds, getting her a glass of water, and preparing her medication and bath towel. My role is to assist with the practical tasks that Joan can’t manage on her own, like helping her get out of bed, getting her dressed, and ensuring she’s ready for the day.
Once Joan is up and about, we might head out for the day, often to a retail park or a café with Daisy. Joan plans what she wants to do, and I help her achieve that. In the evening, I help her settle back in, prepare her dinner, and make sure she’s comfortable before the night shift begins.
A lot of people assume that PAs are like carers, but there’s a big difference. While a carer’s role might be to complete tasks for someone, a PA focuses on helping that person maintain their independence. Joan doesn’t need to be looked after, she’s strong, independent, and capable. My job is to help her do what she wants, rather than doing everything for her.
The most rewarding part of the job is seeing Joan happy and fulfilled. When we have a great day out, and she says it’s been the best day, it makes everything worthwhile. Knowing that I’ve helped her live the life she wants is incredibly satisfying. Of course, there are small challenges, like making sure I don’t take over too much, but if you’re a caring, people focused person, this job is more about the joy of making a real difference in someone’s life.
The Independent Living Fund (ILF) has been crucial for Joan. It allows her to employ multiple PAs with different skills to support her varied needs. Without ILF, Joan wouldn't have the flexibility to live the way she does now, enjoying her social life, outings, and daily routines exactly as she wants.
