FAQ

At Sternenbrücke, we provide care for children, adolescents and young adults who have been diagnosed with a life-shortening illness. This includes, in particular, metabolic and muscular diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, severe multiple disabilities and different types of cancer.

 Find out more about the medical conditions.

We admit children, adolescents and young adults up to the age of 27.

Families come to Sternenbrücke for a variety of reasons: Most of our work – around 80% – focuses on respite care stays, giving families valuable time to rest and recharge. In addition, we provide support for children and their families during the final stage of life and even offer grief support services after they have lost their child

Families from all over Germany can be admitted to Sternenbrücke. Regardless of what part of Germany they are from, we are here to support and assist them.

Families can spend a maximum of 28 (scheduled) days a year at Sternenbrücke for respite care stays. We are also here for them in crisis situations. When a terminally ill young person reaches the final stage of life, his or her family can stay for an indefinite period.

No, the families do not incur any costs. Health insurance and nursing care funds pay for around 55 percent of the costs for the care of our guests. The remaining 45 percent as well as the costs for accommodating families and loved ones are covered by donations. In this way, we ensure that all families – regardless of their individual financial situation – can receive the comprehensive support they need.

The Sternenbrücke children’s hospice offers a variety of support services for families and loved ones: These include grief counselling, empathetic sibling support through a team of specialists and grief counselors during the stay as well as advice and assistance relating to social care support and benefits available. In addition, daily doctor visits provide families with vital support as the illness progresses.

Find out more about our services for families and siblings.