CMS support in domestic abuse or violence

Keeping your name or location safe from the other parent

By using the Direct Pay service, you can arrange child maintenance without the other parent knowing your new identity or bank account details.

Using your own name 

If you have a bank account in your own name, you can use it. You might be able to set up a new account using your previous name if you still have identification documents your bank will accept.

Pre-payment master cards

If you're the 'receiving parent' and changed your name but don't want the other parent to know your new name , you could get a pre-payment master card. The 'paying parent' can set up a standing order to your pre-payment card.

Non-geographic bank accounts

Many banks and building societies offer accounts that use a central or national sort code instead of a sort code for a local branch where the account was opened.  

If you're worried the other parent could trace you by your bank account’s sort code, ask your bank to set up an account with a non-geographic sort code. CMS can give you a letter for your bank explaining why you need to set up this type of account.

Automated money transfer

There are different organisations that offer a money transfer service online or through post offices. To set up a transfer, they need an email or telephone number. These services usually charge fees. Check with the service provider to make sure you understand any charges

Standing order

If you don't mind sharing your bank account details with the other parent, CMS can give them your bank account details. 

Getting information and advice

If you have suffered domestic violence or abuse, go to:

• Domestic violence and abuse

Getting help from the Housing Executive

The Housing Executive is responsible for helping certain people who are homeless or threatened with homelessness.

Usually they'll consider you legally homeless if it's not reasonable for you to live in your home because of the risk or fear of domestic violence.

Sometimes they have a duty to provide emergency accommodation while they decide if you are legally homeless.

To contact the Housing Executive, go to:

• Housing Executive

For more information about homelessness, go to:

• Finding accommodation

More useful links

• Applying for child maintenance
• Calculate child maintenance