§ Mr. FitzpatrickTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what plans he has to improve access to child support for lone parents who claim income support or income-based jobseeker's allowance. [116667]
§ Angela EagleCloser working between the Child Support Agency and the Benefits Agency has already provided a more straightforward, responsive and easily understood child support service. Currently, when Benefits Agency staff interview lone parents to help with their claim for income support and income based jobseeker's allowance, they also help them complete a child support application. If the parent with care is unwilling to apply for child support, a statement is taken at the interview setting out her reasons. The statement is then passed to the Child Support Agency for a decision on whether the reasons for not applying for child support constitute "good cause".
As a result of these changes, many more parents with care claiming income support and income-based jobseeker's allowance, now apply for child support. 87 per cent. now complete a child support application and provide details of the non-resident parent.
From 1 April this year, following successful trials around the country, the current arrangements will be extended so that the Benefits Agency will take on responsibility for making decisions about good cause. This will further streamline the service offered to lone parents claiming benefit.