Engage has received SiRD (Support in the Right Direction) funding to support people receiving Self-Directed Support, working closely with local carers centres and local authority to help individuals take control of their care.

SiRD provides local, independent support, advice, and advocacy for self-directed support, following the Scottish Government’s Self-Directed Support Improvement Plan 23-27. It helps people and their carers make informed decisions about their social care, giving them more choice and control.

This is allowing us to offer the following:

• Step-by-step training for new SDS Option 1 clients on becoming a good employer

• A safe, private space for PA interviews

• SDS Newsletters (click here to join the mailing list)

• Promotion of PA job opportunities via social media, myjobscotland & newsletter

• Local job fairs for PAs and clients

• Client-led training in areas (e.g. Power of Attorney)

You do not need to be registered with us for any other service to access the support above. You can access this support if you are starting, in the process of, or already receiving Self-Directed Support.

Recruitment & Employment Support

We recognise the struggle with finding PAs, and going through the whole recruitment process. To make this easier, we have created different ways of support we can offer;

• A private facebook recruitment page for advertising - https://www.facebook.com/groups/649110991533123/ 

• Job advert templates - https://form.jotform.com/260152380016344

• A safe space for holding interviews

• Recruitment templates (e.g. interview questions, offer letters)

• Contracts of employment (small admin fee)

Personal Assistant Employer Handbook - view here

Payroll Service for Self-Directed Support

Support for individuals receiving SDS or Independent Living Fund. 

We can help by providing:

• Custom payroll services

• Payment of respite and care-related invoices

• Detailed budget reports for your local authority

• HR support, including PA contracts and staff handbooks

• PVG checks and admin

• Help managing your SDS budget

• Liaising with funders on your behalf (SDS & ILF)

We’ll set up and manage a dedicated bank account for your SDS funds, making it easier for you to stay on top of your budget. From this, we handle all payments — including HMRC, staff wages, pensions, and suppliers (e.g. respite invoices). We also offer one-to-one support to guide you through the setup process, available in person at our office, online, or through home visits. 

PVG – Protecting Vulnerable Groups

Engage Renfrewshire is a registered umbrella body with Disclosure Scotland, allowing us to process PVG (Protecting Vulnerable Groups) checks on behalf of individuals and employers.

From April 2025, it is a legal requirement that anyone in a regulated role involving children or vulnerable adults must be a PVG scheme member.

Employing or recruiting someone who is not a PVG member could result in criminal charges, including fines or imprisonment.

(full guidance is available on the Scottish Government website - https://www.mygov.scot/pvg-scheme/regulated-roles)

To help employers stay compliant, we offer this service with a small admin fee.

Need a PVG check for a personal assistant, or someone carrying out a regulated role?

You do not need to be a using other Engage services… Get in touch with us today to stay compliant and protected.