SNP Comments on Child Maintenance Changes

SNP spokesperson for Work and Pensions Dr Eilidh Whiteford MP has raised concerns over changes to child maintenance payments which could see children lose out on support.

Thousands of letters are to be sent to single parents in the UK informing them of changes to their child maintenance arrangements. The UK government wants parents to agree their child maintenance agreements "amicably" or face a charge. The charges will be introduced later this year, and all single parents will be charged an upfront fee of £20 for registering with the new service.

Dr Eilidh Whiteford said:

“While most parents who have separated manage to agree child maintenance arrangements, some parents find this impossible. However, children still need support.

“These changes will make it harder for parents who take care of the child to secure support from non-resident parents, and may lead to child maintenance agreements which are unstable. The bottom line is that children will lose out on the support they need.”