Child Maintenance

An introduction to child maintenance and the different options available to you.

A Private Agreement is one of the options for sorting out child maintenance, where you and the other parent make an arrangement between yourselves. This leaflet explains more about this option, and includes a form that you can use to keep a record of your agreement.

If your ex-partner moves abroad, you may still be able to pursue child maintenance, through a process called Reciprocal Enforcement of Maintenance Orders (REMO). Under this scheme, participating countries can enforce a UK court order on behalf of UK residents.

This leaflet explains the rights and responsibilities of separated parents, with information on what services and specialist legal advice are available. It also discusses some of the practical considerations for separated families.

This leaflet can help you deal with the feelings you may have when raising a child apart from the other parent. It also talks about how to support your child during what can be an emotionally difficult time.

This leaflet has lots of useful information on your housing rights and options as a separated parent, including financial help you may be entitled to.

This leaflet provides information about money matters for parents living apart, including the best way to manage your finances.

This leaflet gives parents who live apart impartial information about employment opportunities and rights. This includes where you can find help with childcare and looking for a job.

This leaflet gives advice on how to minimise the affect that your separation has on your children from Agony Aunt, Deidre Sanders.