Economic abuse is recognised under the Domestic Abuse Act. Yet, despite its prevalence, the impact that economic abuse has on survivors is still overlooked. Specifically, how the child maintenance system can be used by perpetrators to withhold money and exert control over survivors post separation.
The 2023 Child Maintenance (Domestic Abuse) Act aimed to improve enforcement, yet as of June 2024 according to statistics released by the Department of Work and Pensions, 42% of children using Collect and Pay received nothing. This leaves many families unsupported, especially mothers.
For the first time, Welsh Women’s Aid has released a Child Maintenance Service Guide for Survivors which provides practical help for dealing with the Child Maintenance Service, clarifying rights and outlining enforcement measures to encourage survivors to challenge non-payment.
Child Maintenance Service: Guide for Survivors
If you have any queries related to this guidance or the Child Maintenance Service, please email [email protected]
If you or anyone you know needs support, help is available to you now. The Live Fear Free Helpline can provide confidential advice or support around domestic abuse, sexual violence or violence against women. It is available 24/7, 7 days a week. Call 0808 80 10 800, text 07860077333 or email [email protected]. You can also access the Live Fear Free Helpline online chat by heading to: https://www.gov.wales/live-fear-free/contact-live-fear-free.
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