Can a support recipient request licence suspension directly, or does it happen automatically?

Licence suspension works through the Family Responsibility Office's own enforcement process rather than as something a recipient triggers directly on request. Once a support order or agreement is registered with FRO and arrears build up without being resolved, FRO determines which of its enforcement tools, including licence suspension, are appropriate, following its own notice process to the payor before proceeding. A recipient doesn't file a separate application specifically asking for a licence to be suspended.

That said, a recipient's role isn't passive. Making sure the order is properly registered with FRO, keeping FRO updated with relevant information, such as the payor's employer or new address, and promptly reporting missed payments all help FRO's enforcement process move effectively, including toward tools like suspension where warranted. If a recipient feels enforcement isn't progressing despite ongoing arrears, following up directly with FRO about the status of the case, and involving a family lawyer if the response isn't satisfactory, is more effective than trying to request a specific enforcement step independently.