let down by csa (CSA Child Support Agency)

Member Name: sarah-jay

Product:	CSA Child Support Agency
Date:	19/05/09 (23 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: none

Disadvantages: a lot

I am the mother of a 3 month old child and have recently received a letter from csa saying that my baby's dad has only got to pay 2.50 a week as he's claiming benefit and that its not getting backdated. He doesn't want to have any contact with our baby but has said he will pay. But all I've received since the birth is 20 pounds. He hasn't even brought our baby anything for when she was born.

I disagree with their decision because I know he does work when he can get work, and that he has several times since I've given birth (he's self-employed), but I can't prove it as I don't live in the area anymore. He even gets money in a dodgy way so he can go out with his mates and does what he pleases. I've called the csa but they've said there's nothing I can do as I don't have proof of him working. Its so annoying as he lives at his mums rent free, has no bills and to me it feels like he is not taking any responsibility. You would think he's a child but hes not as hes 28. I've even asked him, before getting in contact with csa, to come up with our own agreement. I mentioned about writing down what our child needs and then going half but he said no and to do it through csa. I now know why he's done it this way.

I feel so let down by the csa as I think he should pay a little bit more. I'm not asking for loads just for the right amount, as what can I get for 2.50. It doesn't even pay half the price for nappies. I'm thinking about cancelling the payment and do it completely alone as that is what I've done so far.

How can they let people like my ex get away with this. It take two to make a baby and it should be both to make sure that the child has what it needs. How can csa think 2.50 is acceptable.

Summary: They don't think realistically about a childs' need and seem to fall for the lies.