My partner is being pushed into a situation with no disposable income due to the way child maintenance calculations are done. This is not only financially crippling but also affects our entire family. The current system unfairly calculates child maintenance payments based on gross income rather than net income. This discrepancy between calculation and payment leads to unsustainable financial situations, debt, and poverty for many already struggling families.

When maintenance payments are calculated on gross income, it does not take into account important deductions such as taxes and social security contributions which everyone must pay. Consequently, the obligated parent is left with far less income available to cover basic living expenses such as rent, utilities, food, and transportation.

According to a report by Gingerbread and research published by the Institute for Fiscal Studies, around 14% of single parents are facing severe financial hardship as a result of current maintenance calculations. This statistic is alarming and demands immediate action.

We propose that the Government and Child Maintenance Services urgently review and amend the policy to calculate child maintenance payments based on net income. This change would create a fairer, more accurate representation of the paying parent's available resources and prevent them from spiralling into financial distress.

Let's come together to ensure that child maintenance supports children without pushing families into poverty. Your support and signature can be the catalyst for much-needed change. Sign our petition and help us advocate for a fair and sustainable child maintenance system.