Thank you to everyone—individuals, friends and family—who spend time all year round managing Direct Payments so you or a loved one receives support that’s truly personal. We know directing your own care takes real effort, and we hope it results in better, more tailored support. 

We’re fortunate to offer access to Just Credit Union direct payment accounts, which provide friendly help with managing payments and audit requirements. If you’d like a more supportive banking option—where invoices and payslips are paid on your behalf and financial monitoring information is sent straight to Shropshire Council to reduce paperwork—please email direct.payments@shropshire.gov.uk and we’ll help you switch to Just Credit Union in the New Year. 

Advance or Arrears? 

Direct Payments give you choice and control through self‑directed support. Shropshire Council’s preferred way of arranging care is to pay in arrears—that is, providers invoice for care already delivered—though we recognise some providers request payment in advance and some people choose to use them. If you do pay in advance, please make sure your contract clearly sets out fair, reasonable terms for illness, cancellations or non‑attendance, and what happens if plans change. If anything feels unclear or you’d like help reviewing the terms, please contact direct.payments@shropshire.gov.uk. 

Please ensure all annual leave for the 2025/26 leave year is taken by 31 March 2026. Taking regular breaks throughout the year is essential for wellbeing and maintaining a healthy work–life balance. Annual leave should not normally be carried over, except in exceptional circumstances such as maternity, adoption or long-term sickness, or where leave had to be cancelled to avoid a break in essential care because alternative support could not be sourced. Carry-over should always be agreed in advance.

Payment in lieu of unused annual leave at the end of the leave year should be avoided—leave is intended to be taken, not paid out. If you need advice on planning leave or managing carry-over, please contact direct.payments@shropshire.gov.uk.