Foster parents | Adoption

Foster parents care for a child temporarily or long-term, but do not automatically remain its legal parents – custody usually remains with the youth welfare office or the biological parents. In an adoption, the child becomes a full legal member of the new family, with all rights and responsibilities.

The Bremen Adoption Agency, part of the Office for Social Services (AfSD), is the central point of contact for all questions relating to adoption in the city of Bremen. It offers comprehensive advice, guidance, and support for all involved – biological parents, adoptive parents, and adoptees.

Stable living conditions, sufficient time for a child, and a willingness to engage with unique life stories are essential. Trained professionals carefully assess your suitability. There is a specific procedure for this – regardless of family structure, lifestyle, or background.

You can contact foster care services or adoption agencies. They offer information sessions, preparation courses, and home visits. This will help you determine if taking in a child is a good option and which form of placement would be most suitable.

Families who take in a child are not left alone: ​​They can access counseling, support groups, financial assistance, and professional guidance from the youth welfare office or specialized services. Additional support can be arranged if challenges arise.

Yes. Various family structures are possible for foster children, and single individuals as well as same-sex couples can also be considered for adoptions. The child's welfare and the child's stable environment are always the deciding factors.

The process can take varying amounts of time depending on the situation, the assessment procedure, and the level of need. Fostering children may be placed more quickly, while adoptions often take several months to years. Specialized agencies will keep you informed every step of the way.