State Coordination Office for Children of Inmates Bremen

The imprisonment of a parent changes the lives of children and their families overnight. Hoppenbank eV offers advice and support for affected families and relatives.

The imprisonment of a parent changes the lives of children and their families overnight. Besides the sudden loss of a key figure in their daily lives, questions, uncertainties, and fears of social exclusion often arise. In this difficult situation, children have a right to be heard, protected, and to have their needs taken seriously.

• Our goal: We are committed to ensuring that children's rights are protected and that the parent-child relationship is strengthened despite the physical separation.
• As the central coordination office for Bremen and Bremerhaven, we act as an interface and guide between families, the justice system and child and youth welfare services.

Services for affected families and relatives:

• We are here for you if a family member is incarcerated. We offer you a safe space to discuss your concerns. Our advice is confidential, free of charge, and focused solely on your needs.
• Initial consultation: We listen to you and sort out the situation with you - together we clarify which steps are important for you now.
• Support: We help you to make contact with the incarcerated parent child-friendly. We support you in deciding whether and how contact can take place, and how to create safe spaces for the child.
• Orientation and referral: We are familiar with the networks in Bremen and Bremerhaven and will refer you to advice centers if needed. Should you be unable to reach us, we will of course get back to you.