Social Services for Vulnerable Groups in Germany

Abstract

The report focuses on services for minors, female and “queer” (lesbian, gay, bi- and transsexual, transgender, and intersexual, or LGBTTI) refugees, elderly or disabled, as well as traumatized persons. These groups – while comprising very heterogeneous living situations – are particularly vulnerable and thus in need of special protection or services. For example, they may require specific health services, while at the same time access to the health care system in Germany is restricted within the first 15 months of the stay. Therefore, legal provisions allow for additional services e.g. for elderly, disabled or traumatized refugees. Voluntary offers supplement these professional services. Moreover, unaccompanied minors are particularly addressed by German law, whereas children and youth entering Germany with their parents or a legal guardian are subject to the same treatment as their parents. Female refugees, in particular pregnant and breast-feeding women, are also subject to special protection provisions and services, many of which are provided by non-profit organizations (NPOs). The particular vulnerabilities of LGBTTI refugees have recently been recognized more strongly by law and administrative practice, also due to the lobbying activities of NPOs.