Reform Child Maintenance: Introduce a set weekly rate per child

Summary

Replace current income-based percentage system with a standardized set weekly rate per child. We think this would ensure all children receive a fair & consistent amount of support, regardless of their parent’s employment status or career success, while preventing excessive charges on working parents In our view, the current system is unfair as non-workers or those on benefits often pay a flat rate of just £7 per week, while working parents can be charged extreme amounts—sometimes over £350 per week for the same number of children. We believe that a child’s basic needs do not fluctuate this wildly based on a parent’s salary. We call for a fixed rate that reflects the true cost of raising a child. This could remove the "work penalty," simplify the system, and ensure equal financial value for every child.

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Timeline

1. 23 April 2026

   Petition

   Replace current income-based percentage system with a standardized set weekly rate per child. We think this would ensure all children receive a fair & consistent amount of support, regardless of their parent’s employment status or career success, while preventing excessive charges on working parents In our view, the current system is unfair as non-workers or those on benefits often pay a flat rate of just £7 per week, while working parents can be charged extreme amounts—sometimes over £350 per week for the same number of children. We believe that a child’s basic needs do not fluctuate this wildly based on a parent’s salary. We call for a fixed rate that reflects the true cost of raising a child. This could remove the "work penalty," simplify the system, and ensure equal financial value for every child.

   Source: Petition

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