Is there anything I can do?

I first claimed via the CSA 5 years ago, that claim was ignored so the benefit agency submitted another on the following year, also ignored. A year later they submitted another one which was finally looked at and because my ex was claiming benefits (although still working self-employed on the side) he only had to pay £5. A year later the tax office informed CSA his earnings had increased so was told to pay more. He refused and for a year now I've been waiting and hearing promises that they would send bailiffs in to recover money owing to me they have now told me he has nil income so doesn't have to pay anything and have reduced the arrears and allowed him to pay it off £5 per week which will take 2 1/2 years. Our daughter tells me he's put everything in his girlfriends name so they can't touch him. I've told CSA he's lying and that the income is his but they say I have to provide proof before they can do anything as they have to 'follow the law' It hurts like hell that he buys expensive new cars every year, takes holidays and is having his house re-decorated when I have to watch my children come home upset after they've been given a detention because I can't afford to buy them the uniform/equipment they need. He hasn't even seen them for 2 years and not once in 5 years has he bought them anything.
Is there anything I can do other than write a letter of complaint to the CSA? (although they'll probably reply that they've done their job properly )

I don't have any words of wisdom when it comes to making a non resident parent want to support their child/ren.

However, I was wondering if you have appoached the school with regards to the uniform. I know my duaghter had a letter with her regarding her trousers last year, as I couldn't afford a 'proper' pair of school ones.

Hope someone can come up with some answers. The father of my children has always pleaded poverty despite marrying in USA, holiday abroad etc...

Hi Anne
I totally understand what is going on and how it must be making you feel. Been there etc etc.....

What I would suggest is firstly write that letter of complaint. Make sure it is written in a way that you have given them factual information. Give them 10-14 days to respond and state that in a letter. In addition ask them to speak to the 'complex cases' team as a matter of urgency. If they refuse ask the person to transfer you to their supervisor or case unit manager. Persist, persist persist (or insist if thats a better word)
After receipt of response and they say exactly that ie we've acted within the law then take all letters and all proof of ex to your local MP. They have 'surgeries' every month or so (not sure...you need to find out sometimes its more often)Present a clear but adamant case and tell him/her that he/she has to act upon it as the lack of activity is detrimental to your children etc etc. An MP has a duty to represent his constituents and a body such as CSA has failed one of his constituenst and the children.
Thats all the advice I can offer...hopefully someone can help more. I have known an MP be successful in the securing of maintenance for children where the CSA has previoulsy failed.
Good luck
Lof