Zahid’s Story - Individual Employer

My Story...

I am an Individual Employer (IE) who employs Personal Assistants (PAs) to support me to live the life I want to live.  I have shared my story over the phone using the UK relay service, writing my responses with my feet.  Thanks to UK Relay, I can call people myself and I no longer have to wait for others to do it for me.  This is one of the three things that has revolutionised my life in the last 10 years. The second thing is the personalised care package and support network I have. My network consists of 5 or 6 PAs and my amazing family and friends. The third thing is my electric wheelchair which has given me the freedom to go out on my own for the first time in my life.

I think I get on with everyone I meet. I am sociable, I love spending time with family and friends or sharing jokes and having a laugh. I absolutely love the freedom of managing my own support. I get the help I need without anyone telling me what to do which is immensely liberating.

Being an Individual Employer:

I tend to find my PAs by searching on indeed. They are a diverse mix of individuals, and I get on well with them all. I love being in a position to direct my own support to meet my changing needs and interests.  Every morning and evening my PA’s support me with my personal care and meal preparation. Each day is different, as they help me achieve my goals and do the things I enjoy and going out for long drives in the countryside is a firm favourite.

It can occasionally be tricky when the PAs are on holiday, but the direct payment works flexibly, and they generally work well as a team to fill in the gaps.

Best part of having personalised care by employing PAs:

I would recommend employing PAs to anyone looking for personalised support at home because you are your own boss, without anyone telling you what to do.

Zahid - Individual Employer