Berlin honors commitment of foster parents - Berlin's Bold Plan to Revive Foster Care with Bonuses and Better Support
Berlin has taken new steps to support foster families and attract more carers. The city's 'start-up bonus', introduced in 2025, has already brought in 72 new foster households, reversing a long decline in numbers. Officials have also announced plans to improve services and recognize carers' efforts more formally.
The 'start-up bonus' was initially a pilot scheme but has now been made permanent. Foster families receive €924 per month during the early stages of a placement. This financial support aims to ease the transition for both children and carers.
A major change in policy means the local youth welfare office—where foster parents live—will now handle a child's case if the child has been there for over two years. Previously, the birth family's local office retained responsibility. The shift is designed to provide more stability for children in long-term care.
Berlin has also expanded support for foster families. New measures include subsidised annual holidays and easier access to psychosocial services. Additionally, emergency foster care placements will be set up in every district to respond quickly to urgent needs.
For the first time, the city hosted an annual reception to honour foster parents from all districts. The event, co-hosted by the Senate Department for Education, Youth, and Family and Governing Mayor Kai Wegner (CDU), will now take place every year. Wegner praised foster families for offering children security and a loving home, while Family Senator Katharina Güntner-Wünsch (CDU) described their role as indispensable in protecting and nurturing vulnerable young people.
The changes mark a significant effort to strengthen Berlin's foster care system. With more financial help, better local support, and formal recognition, the city hopes to encourage even more families to take on fostering roles. The annual reception will continue as a way to highlight and thank those who provide stable homes for children in need.
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