Petition · Department for Work and Pensions
Reform Child Maintenance: Introduce a set weekly rate per child
Open for signatures
501 signatures
What the petition asks
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.
Timeline
| 3 Jun 2026 | Petition opened for signatures |
Key facts
Signatures
501
Status
Open for signatures
Department
Department for Work and Pensions
Opened
3 Jun 2026
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Source: the official petition page. Last checked 26 Jul 2026.