Government figures show that more than 7,000 children in Bradford have been helped by the new Child Maintenance Service.
The service, for separated parents to support their children, opened to applicants on Monday but was rolled out initially earlier this year.
It will eventually replace the Child Support Agency.
As part of the reforms, all separated parents applying for help with maintenance payments will first be given free information and support by the new service.
It will act as backstop for parents who cannot work things out between themselves, and the Government says it will provide a faster, more efficient service.
Department for Work and Pensions Minister Steve Webb said: “We have learned from the mistakes of the past and are introducing these reforms gradually, using a phased approach.”
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