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

Follow this petition

Sign in to get an email when the government responds, a debate is scheduled or held, or the petition closes.

Source: the official petition page. Last checked 26 Jul 2026.