CSA

[Elmo9]

Ive been split up and divorced for 8 years now. I have 2 children 16 and 11 and he has been paying minimum maintenance but has never increased in the whole time, he has never put it up. I’ve been reluctant to go through CSA but it’s now really bothering me as he will never pay anything extra and expects everything to come out of the maintenance. Both children play sports which I have to cover, all school uniforms/shoes/school trips I have to cover. With all rising costs I am finding it very costly and challenging while he is having a very comfortable life. Recently I have spent nearly £1000 extra the 3 months on new school uniform/shoes, school trips, sports clubs, sports club uniform. They both play at a very high level and I don’t want to have to say no as I need to find the money for the talent. My question is do I go to CSA? My only worry is if he is paying me the right amount or more will I lose out? (I don’t think this is the case as he is on a very good wage and overtime as well but it’s on the back of my mind!) Surely he should be helping me with these additional costs? How do CSA go about it? Do they have to get his permission to look into his wages? Not sure I want to rock the boat if it’s not beneficial but equally I’m really get fed up that I’m having to fork out extras every month. Just had letter home for trips which is now another £100. I just think it’s not fair for me to pick it up all the time. Just to mention, he has my children one night every other weekend for 24 hours, no extra and sometimes it’s only one that will go. I always have to travel 30 mins and use my petrol to drop and pick children up. Any advice would be greatly received. Thanks

[Elmo9]

Just to say I have asked on numerous occasion about helping. He agrees and then I never receive any additional money or he ignores my messages😡