Recent Child Maintenance statistics show 38% intake reduction

The latest statistics from the new Child Maintenance Service were published in September covering the period June to August 2014 (just after the £20 application charge was introduced on 30th June). The CMS intake went down from 9,700 in May to 6000 by the end of August – a drop of 38%.

DWP say it’s too early to draw any conclusions – because they calculate that some parents with care will change their minds and eventually come round to using the CMS despite the £20 upfront charge. We don't think so.

Has anyone been put off applying to the CMS because of the upfront £20 fee or because of having to have direct payments from your ex partner or for any other reason? Let us know about your experiences of the new CMS scheme in our Chat forums.