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.
Our Non-Partisan Approach
We're gathering voices from all sides - paying parents, receiving parents, children, and professionals.
We believe that all perspectives have something valid to be heard. This isn't about taking sides, it's about understanding that everyone affected by the CMS has legitimate concerns that deserve acknowledgment and consideration.
Our Investigation
We're conducting a comprehensive investigation into the CMS, gathering evidence from all perspectives to understand the full picture of what's happening and why.
Evidence Collection
We're anonymously gathering real experiences from both paying and receiving parents to document the actual impact of CMS policies. Every voice matters in building a comprehensive picture of what's really happening.
Stay InformedKey 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
Our Goal
To create an evidence-based amalgamation of voices that cannot be ignored - pushing for meaningful reform that puts children's welfare at the heart of the child maintenance system.
This isn't about taking sides between paying and receiving parents. It's about documenting what's really happening and advocating for a system that works for the children it's meant to protect.
Help Build the Evidence
Your experience matters. Whether you're a paying parent, receiving parent, or professional working with the CMS, your perspective helps build the full picture.