What a personal assistant should expect from their employer
Direct payments are actively promoted by Kirklees Council as a way for individuals to have more control over their care. This includes the option to employ a personal assistant directly.
Please note: Kirklees is not the employer and does not have a direct employment relationship with the personal assistant. However, Kirklees should ensure that the direct payment is used appropriately and corresponds with the care and support plan, direct payment policy, guidance, and contract.
A personal assistant should expect
- A written contract outlining duties, hours, pay, holiday entitlement, related advance notice required and termination of employment notice period requirement.
- A job description detailing the tasks expected (e.g. personal care, household tasks, community support).
- At least the National Minimum Wage or National Living Wage, depending on age.
- Paid annual leave, sick leave, and maternity/paternity leave as per employment law.
- Pay slips showing wages and deductions.
- Employer's liability insurance to cover accidents or incidents at work.
- Pension contributions if earning over £10,000/year (auto-enrolment applies).
- Access to training relevant to the employer's care needs (e.g. manual handling, safeguarding): Skills for Care: Online training .
- A safe working environment with attention to health and safety.
- A relationship based on mutual respect, confidentiality, and clear communication.
- Employers may use payroll services to manage wages, tax, and National Insurance.
Policy and guidance
We've updated our direct payments policy and guidance - this will be introduced as user agreements are updated from Summer 2026.