Ekrem Imamoglu
At ÖZGEM centers, we carry out initiatives to promote equality of opportunity and support individuals with special needs to live stronger and more independent lives. From education to employment, rehabilitation to legal assistance, we stand by them in every aspect of their journey.
What is ÖZGEM?
The Special Needs Education Centers (ÖZGEM), operated under the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality Social Services Department’s Disabilities Branch, serve individuals with special needs across 23 centers and 6 short break centers. These centers aim to make life easier for individuals with special needs living in Istanbul.
At ÖZGEM, we work to ensure that individuals of different ages and disability groups:
- Become more integrated into society,
- Have opportunities to socialize,
- Receive education,
- Have their specific needs met,
- Participate in employment, and
- Access psychological support.
Recognizing that each individual’s needs are unique, we provide services through personalized programs designed for both individuals and their families.
What Services Are Offered at ÖZGEM?
The Special Needs Education Centers (ÖZGEM) provide education and support services tailored to the unique needs of individuals across various age groups and requirements. These services span psychological support, education, social support, rehabilitation, and transportation, aiming to make life easier for individuals with special needs. Below are the main services:
1. Education Support and Therapy Services
We offer customized educational and support services designed to fit each individual’s age, needs, and developmental characteristics.
- For Early Childhood and Primary School Age (0-14 Years):
Group and individual educational programs include:- Sensory integration therapy
- Speech and language therapy
- Physical therapy
- For Adulthood (15-35 Years):
Services promote independent living and social development, including:- Braille reading and writing education
- White cane training
- Rhythm and music lessons
- Sign language education
- Classes for jewelry design and ceramics
We also provide certified vocational training courses, Turkish sign language courses, and EKPSS preparation courses, helping individuals secure employment and integrate more fully into society.
2. ÖZGEM Short Break Centers
We offer short break services for individuals between 4-14 years old and 15-35 years old, enabling:
- Participation in music, art, and other social activities for entertainment and socialization,
- Parents and caregivers to have time for themselves during the day.
3. Psychological Support Services
At ÖZGEM, we provide emotional and social development support for both individuals with special needs and their families, including:
- Individual and group counseling sessions for emotional and social development,
- Family-focused training and seminars to ensure healthy and appropriate approaches toward children and improve caregivers’ psychological well-being.
4. Social Support Services
We provide community-oriented support, including:
- Information, guidance, and service counseling through expert psychologists, sociologists, and public relations specialists.
- Live support and e-counseling via a Turkish sign language interpreter.
- In-home services, such as hairdressing, for individuals who cannot leave their homes.
- Organizing cultural and artistic events, entertainment programs, and trips throughout the year.
Additional services:
- Employment support for individuals with special needs,
- Legal consultation on their rights,
- Provision of medical supplies and maintenance services.
5. Rehabilitation Services
At ÖZGEM, we offer rehabilitation services tailored to the needs and abilities of individuals with special needs. These include:
- Sports-based rehabilitation: Individuals are guided by expert trainers to participate in individual or team sports.
- Hydrotherapy: Water-based therapy to support physical and mental development.
These services contribute to the social, physical, mental, and psychological growth of individuals.
6. Camp Services
We offer year-round free vacation opportunities at two disability-friendly camps in Istanbul:
- Florya Disability Camp
- Şile Disability Camp
These camps provide a vacation experience comparable to holiday village standards, ensuring individuals with special needs can enjoy a holiday without worrying about accessibility, financial difficulties, or physical challenges.
7. Transportation Services
- Free transportation services are available for individuals with special needs and elderly residents in Istanbul who cannot use public transportation or face accessibility challenges.
- For school-aged children who cannot use school buses or public transport due to physical disabilities, we provide free transportation to their schools and ÖZGEM centers.
8. Awareness and Volunteering Services
To promote a culture of inclusivity, we organize awareness programs for:
- Preschool, primary, and high school students.
- Individuals from various professional groups.
These training sessions aim to help the community, starting from a young age, understand and embrace the role of individuals with special needs in society.
Who Can Apply to ÖZGEM?
To benefit from ÖZGEM services, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a resident of Istanbul,
- Possess a Special Needs Report for Children (ÇÖZGER), or
- Have a 40% or higher disability report issued by a fully equipped hospital.
Individuals meeting these requirements can apply for and access ÖZGEM services.
How to Apply to ÖZGEM?
You can apply to the Special Needs Education Center (ÖZGEM) through the following methods:
- Prepare the required application documents.
- Submit your application via:
- Alo 153 Solution Center,
- Special Needs Education Centers or ÖZGEM Contact Points, or
- Online by sending an email to [email protected].
Where is ÖZGEM Located?
The Special Needs Education Centers (ÖZGEM) operate at 23 different locations across Istanbul, along with 6 Short Break Centers and contact offices. Below are the addresses and contact details for ÖZGEM centers on both the Asian and European sides of Istanbul:
