The recent October Budget brought forward significant changes that may pose financial challenges for individuals who rely on government care funding to employ Personal Care Assistants (PAs) via PAYE. These updates will need careful consideration for those managing their own care teams through direct payments or personal budgets. Here’s a breakdown of these budget changes [...]

When it comes to finding the right Personal Care Assistant (PA) or Client, a few messages or phone calls aren't enough! Nothing beats a face-to-face meeting to see if you "click." Whether in person or online, real conversations reveal much more about compatibility, which is key to a successful working relationship. That’s why at PAPool, [...]

The French film The Intouchables and PA Pool – discovering why compatibility is so important for both Clients and PAsHave you ever seen a movie that resonates so deeply with your own experiences that it feels almost like a reflection of your own life or work? That’s exactly how I felt after watching The Intouchables (or Untouchable), the 2011 [...]

AccessAble - Your Accessibility GuideAccessibility needs vary, and having reliable, detailed information is crucial to making outings stress-free. AccessAble, formerly known as DisabledGo, takes the uncertainty out of going out by providing comprehensive accessibility guides. They've surveyed tens of thousands of venues across the UK and Ireland - from shops and restaurants to hospitals and [...]

Accessible Sports and Recreation Activities in the UK: Promoting Active and Healthy LifestylesThe UK has made significant strides in promoting inclusive sports and recreation activities, ensuring that people with disabilities have ample opportunities to engage in physical activities. With the Paris 2024 Olympics in full swing and the Paralympics just around the corner, there is [...]

Accessibility Innovations… What's New in the UK? The landscape of accessibility is constantly evolving, with new advancements and technologies emerging to make life easier and more inclusive for everyone. In the UK, recent innovations in accessibility infrastructure and technology are not only transforming the lives of people with disabilities but also benefiting elderly individuals, those [...]

As the UK General Election approaches, political parties have released their manifestos, outlining key policies and priorities. This election on the 4th July is particularly crucial, given the ongoing challenges in social care and the pressing need for policies that support disabled people. At PA Pool, we know how overwhelming and confusing politics can be, [...]

A new and comprehensive guide explores all aspects of life not often aired, including the physical, emotional and medical, and aims to provide support for people who are ill, have had an accident or who have experienced trauma.There is also a section on packing for a hospital stay, in the event of an operation, plus [...]

I'm excited to announce our very first live online event, and you're invited to join me and the team for an engaging and interactive session!Date: Wednesday 28th FebruaryTime: 7pm - 8pmPlatform: Google Meet (you don’t need a Google account to join)What to expect This meet-up is a unique opportunity for you to connect directly with [...]

Some of you may already know me, but for those that don’t, my name’s Katy Etherington, I am the founder and Director of PA Pool! I thought it might be nice if I explained how and why PA Pool started and the general ethos of the business.I have Spinal Muscular Atrophy and have been employing [...]

In recent years, the rapid advancement of technology has sparked discussions about the potential use of robots and artificial intelligence (AI) in various aspects of our lives, including providing personal care and support. As we navigate this landscape of innovation, it's crucial to consider the pros and cons of integrating technology into care provision and [...]

We’ve put together these useful tips to help you get the most from your membership with PA Pool:Profile - Make sure your profile is 100% complete and as comprehensive as possible to optimise your opportunity to find work or to find a PA/Carer who can meet your needs. Remember to include the shift details you require, [...]

In the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare education, hands-on experience is the key to unlocking a student's full potential. Imagine a platform that not only offers students the chance to earn while they learn but also plays a crucial role in facilitating independence for disabled and elderly individuals in the comfort of their own homes. Welcome [...]

Today, I want to share something close to my heart - the vision we have for PA Pool as more than just an online platform. We're building a community, a space where Personal Care Assistants (PAs) and PA Employers (PA Users) come together not only for employment but for the overall wellness of each member.As [...]

Pathfinders Neuromuscular Alliance is now delivering training aimed at PAs working for people with high physical support needs.Do you work with, or want to work with people who have high physical support needs? Whether it’s understanding ventilation, the importance of positioning, or how to fit around someone’s job, family, and life, the Pathfinders Neuromuscular Alliance [...]

Pathfinders Neuromuscular Alliance is now delivering training aimed at working for people with high physical support needs and managing your care team when you have high physical support needs.Do you have high physical support needs?Learn how to get the best from your care, from recruitment to rotas, designing your training to difficult conversations in a [...]