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, located within the Office for Social Services (AfSD), is the central point of contact for all questions relating to adoption in Bremen, including Bremen-North. 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 assess suitability through a structured process – regardless of family structure, lifestyle, or background.

Stable living conditions, sufficient time for a child, and a willingness to engage with unique life stories are essential. Trained professionals assess suitability through a structured process – regardless of family structure, lifestyle, or background.

Those interested should contact foster care services or adoption agencies. These services offer informational meetings, preparation courses, and home visits. The aim is to determine whether taking a child into a foster home is feasible and which form of placement is most suitable.

Families are not left alone: ​​there is counseling, support groups, financial assistance, and professional support from the youth welfare office or specialized services. Additional help 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 can be placed more quickly, while adoptions often take several months to years. Specialized agencies keep interested parties informed about every step.