In 2021, the father of my children decided to ignore his responsibility to pay child maintenance, although he works under-the-table and occasionally provides small, non-essential treats. This inconsistency and lack of substantial financial contribution is unjust and unfair and does not properly support our children. It is profoundly unfair that mothers are left in this precarious position, having to virtually beg for aid to raise the children we brought into this world together.

The current child maintenance system is failing many resident parents who strive to provide the best for their children daily. Despite the hard work and efforts to make things work, the lack of a robust enforcement mechanism allows the non-resident parents to evade their responsibilities with ease, leaving the resident parent to bear the financial burden almost single-handedly.

From my experience, and the stories of countless others, it is evident that the Child Maintenance Service needs significant reform. The system must shift its focus towards genuinely assisting resident parents in receiving consistent and significant support from non-resident parents. The ongoing inadequacies highlight the urgent need for a rigorous, efficient, and enforceable system that guards the interests of the children and ensures their needs are met without unnecessary frictions.

To address this crisis, I propose the following solutions:
1. Implement stringent enforcement measures ensuring that payments are made timely and consistently.
2. Introduce a transparent system wherein both resident and non-resident parents can track payments and obligations.
3. Reserve legal backing to pursue non-compliant non-resident parents effectively.
4. Regular reviews of the maintenance obligations ensuring they align with the cost of living and inflation.

These changes are necessary to foster an environment where children can thrive, and both parents feel supported rather than strained. It is time we bring child welfare to the forefront of the maintenance conversation. Stand with us to demand a comprehensive overhaul of the Child Maintenance Service to prioritise our children's future.

Please sign this petition to ensure that no parent is left struggling alone. We’ve been suffering in silence for too long!