The CMS Story
Understanding the real-world impact of the Child Maintenance Service on families across the UK
Crisis Statistics
CMS users report mental health decline
Mumsnet/Gingerbread survey (2020)
Families currently under CMS arrangements
Over 1 million children affected
Customer satisfaction rate
Lowest of any DWP service (2023-24)
These numbers represent real families in crisis - both paying and receiving parents struggling within a system that isn't working for anyone.
Non-partisan approach: We gather voices from all sides—paying parents, receiving parents, and professionals. Everyone affected has legitimate concerns.
What We're Documenting
Comprehensive evidence collection from all perspectives to understand CMS failures and build the case for reform.
Stay Informed →Key Areas of Concern
Welfare Assessments
- •Inconsistent application of welfare considerations
- •Children's best interests not always prioritized
- •Lack of transparency in decision-making
System Performance
- •Delays in processing and payments
- •Poor communication with parents
- •Inadequate complaint handling
Help Build the Evidence
Your experience—positive or negative—helps build the case for reform.
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