Schutzbedürftige

Schutzbedürftige is a German term used in social policy and welfare practice to denote individuals who, due to factors such as age, disability, illness, mental state, or social vulnerability, require special protection or additional support in public and private settings. The concept emphasizes a rights-based approach: protection should be provided in a manner that respects autonomy and dignity.

Typical groups considered Schutzbedürftige include children and adolescents, elderly people, persons with disabilities, the chronically ill or mentally ill, victims of violence or abuse, individuals with language or cultural barriers, refugees and asylum seekers, and people in precarious living situations such as homelessness. The designation signals that standard procedures may not be sufficient to ensure safety, well-being, and fair treatment.

In practice, recognizing someone as Schutzbedürftig triggers protective and supportive measures by state or non‑state actors, such as welfare agencies, healthcare providers, or educators. This can involve needs assessment, tailored services, and, where appropriate, graduated protective interventions, including guardianship or representation when a person lacks decision-making capacity. Informed consent and the person’s participation in decisions about their care and protection are central, with safeguards designed to prevent overreach.

Legal framework and usage: the term appears across German social policy and welfare practice, influencing responsibilities under the Sozialgesetzbücher (SGB) and related regulations, particularly in areas like child and youth protection, elder care, and disability services. Debates around Schutzbedürftige often center on balancing protection with autonomy and avoiding stigmatization.

See also: Schutzbedürftigkeit, Betreuungsrecht, Kinder- und Jugendhilfe, Soziale Arbeit.

---