The Department for Work and Pensions has responded to last week’s column on how the closure of the Child Support Agency affects victims of domestic violence.
The DWP says it is doing everything possible to safeguard families affected by domestic violence and any families concerned about the new arrangements should contact them for support and advice.
Parents who feel they have no choice but to use the new Child Maintenance Service can avoid the on-going collection charge by opting for a DirectPay service.
Victims of domestic violence will be able to use a special version of DirectPay, which means the other parent will not have any way of tracing them.
The Child Maintenance Options number is 0800 988 0988.
If you are experiencing domestic violence, call the free 24-hour National Domestic Violence Freephone Helpline on 0808 2000 247 or ring 999.
