In this episode, Kate is joined by Jack Gillis from the single-parent charity, Gingerbread, to discuss child maintenance.
Jack is the Advice Service Manager at Gingerbread and is responsible for the single parents’ helpline and webchat service. Gingerbread has supported and championed single parents since 1918. They’ve changed laws, influenced government and challenged stigma and stereotypes. Their expert advice and information help tens of thousands of single parents every year.
Kate and Jack begin the episode by looking at the basics of child maintenance, including what it is and when you might be expected to pay. Jack explains the difference between private arrangements and going through the child maintenance service, or CMS. They explore the pros and cons of private arrangements and the enforcement powers of the CMS if you’re the receiving parent and you aren’t being paid. They also touch on the benefits available for single parents and how to renegotiate arrangements if circumstances change, such as a one parent losing a job.
Gingerbread has a wealth of knowledge on child maintenance so remember to get in touch with them if you need more support.
How to contact Gingerbread: