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Better for everyone: a new vision for child maintenance

Last updated: 19/06/2026

Ambitious proposals for systemic reform of the Child Maintenance Service (CMS) to improve financial security for children in single parent families and reduce poverty among this priority group, guided by robust evidence and lived experience. 

Better for everyone: a new vision for child maintenance

Evidence-based policy proposals for systemic reform of the child maintenance system

Better for everyone

You can download both the full report and a summary version below.

Download Better for everyone full report Download Download summary report

Navigating the child maintenance maze

Navigating the Child Maintenance Service can be confusing and exhausting. Our Single Parent Expert Group shared their experiences to shape the above report and drive reform.

This video previews an interactive simulation of seeking help from the CMS.

Explore the simulation, and discover poems, stories and artwork from members of the Group.

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