Why training and development matters in self-directed support

In this week's #GoodNewsFriday we hear some real examples of the positive impact of learning and development for personal assistants.

In self-directed support, the relationship between someone with access needs and their personal assistant goes far beyond routines or tasks. Training and development for personal assistants (PAs) isn’t just about motivation or job satisfaction—it impacts real, tangible outcomes: wellbeing, confidence, job security, retention, and the independence of the person receiving support.

For personal assistants, training can be transformative. Take Alvyads, a PA supporting a wheelchair user with complex needs. Through training, they learned not just physical handling techniques but also how to read moods, energy levels, and subtle cues. Alvyads says:

Training also makes a huge difference to retention and job satisfaction. PAs who feel confident and skilled are more likely to stay, which gives the individual consistency in care. High turnover disrupts routines, erodes trust, and can affect both physical and emotional well-being. From my perspective as someone with mobility challenges, a well-trained PA doesn’t just follow instructions—they anticipate my needs, respect my independence, and help me feel in control of my life.

Isaac Samuels OBE says: 

Every small act of training has a ripple effect. When a PA understands how to support a person with long-term support needs, it doesn’t just reduce mistakes—it strengthens trust, improves wellbeing, and creates a partnership where both people feel valued. Training isn’t just a box to tick; it’s the foundation of meaningful, self-directed support.

Find more support for individual employers and personal assistants.

If you have a good news story to share email us marketing@skillsforcare.org.uk

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