A MOTHER-of-three says she has been forced to live on the breadline for failing to sign Child Support Agency forms.
Furious Dawn Grundy, 36, has hit out at the CSA, who she claims are causing women to live in fear of "aggressive partners".
Dawn split from her husband and applied for extra support for her three children.
But her £97 per week food and clothing allowance for the children was reduced to £50 a week because she claims she failed to sign a consent form.
The CSA need consent to pursue maintenance claims from the children's father. Dawn, of Grosvenor Street, Bolton, said: "I feel like I am being blackmailed.
"Because I didn't sign this form, my money was reduced by nearly half.
"I got a letter from the CSA saying that if I didn't sign it would be reduced further.
"I want the men of Bolton to realise that it is not women who are to blame.
"The CSA gives us no option. It's making aggressive husbands and partners worse.
"I can't believe the CSA can do this."
However, the CSA says the benefit penalty was brought in to combat fraud and is automatic when parents refuse to co-operate.
A spokesman for the CSA said: "The solution to all this lies completely in Mrs Grundy's own hands.
"If she provides us with the information on reasons why the CSA should not pursue any maintenance claims then we would look at her case individually.
"It could mean that we waive the penalty.
"It is understandable that parents going through a crisis point do not want to hear from the CSA.
"But our concern for the welfare of the child or children is paramount."
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