Why Child Maintenance is Important 

There has long been a stigma surrounding the paying and usage of child maintenance. Some believe it as a means of possibly crippling a parent who has already been stung in divorce proceedings, others feel it is a way of a parent, usually the mother, to have extra money for their own selfish purposes. Whether you split up before your child was born, or found grounds for divorce in UK after their arrival, you still should be financially contributing to your children’s upbringing.  

Cost of Raising a Child 

As of 2019, the cost of raising a child to the age of 18 is said to be around £102,627 for a single parent. This is an exceptionally large amount of money. Paying your own rent and bills without the support of another person can also be financially crippling. If you are not the parent with residency, imagine then the cost of providing for your child on top of this. It is important that these costs are met so that the child has plenty of nutritious food, as well as a clean and well-maintained school uniform. 

Doing Your Bit 

Whether or not you are on the birth certificate, you still have to provide for any children you have. Options such as the Child Maintenance Service can calculate and transfer the maintenance on your behalf, meaning that you will not have to liaise with your former partner about money. This can be especially useful for parents who find it difficult to come to agreements regarding aspects of raising their children. 

For parents who try to avoid these payments, there is also an option for wage deductions, meaning you will still be held accountable even if you try to refuse.  

Concerns 

Sometimes, as a paying parent, you may be concerned about where your money is going. You may also not want to be paying to allow your ex-partner any luxuries. However, it is important to consider that, as long as your child is well looked after and being bought everything they need, it is not up to you what the money is used for. If you can see your child is happy and healthy, then you should be able to rest assured that you are doing your bit. 

When paying child maintenance, it is always important to recognise that the amount you send is the minimum you must provide. You could also contribute to their wellbeing with items that stay at your residence for when they visit or, if possible, liaise with your former partner to jointly contribute to a larger present or necessity.  

There may also be times that your ex-partner may ask for extra assistance, such as if your child requires new school uniform or shoes. While you may not be obligated to help, it is always best to consider the impact upon your child, rather than your relationship with their other parent.