From Social Isolation to Social Integration in Disadvantaged Children: Kocaeli Governorship ÖNEM Project, Kocaeli, Türkiye

Abstract

Objective: Addressing the needs of disadvantaged or vulnerable children and young people is of vital importance in today's society. Comprehensive efforts within both educational institutions and the wider society are essential to provide support and opportunities to these vulnerable groups. The aim of this article is to present the model of the Kocaeli ONEM project, which aims to increase the social integration of disadvantaged children. Methods: Children from broken families, children from families with members in prison, refugee children and children with health problems were included in the study. The study was carried out in 3 different periods. Nineteen activities were planned to improve the social integration of the children. Questionnaires were sent to children, teachers and their families for feedback. Results: A total of 14682 activities were organised, consisting of 19 different categories. A total of 65.695 children participated in the activities. Totally, 15860 supporters were involved in the project. Satisfaction rates obtained through feedback surveys for the last two study periods were 84% for students, 81% and 82% for teachers, 75% and 81% for parents. Conclusion: The activities carried out in the ONEM project served to improve children's problem-solving skills and quality of life. Thanks to these activities, children were able to cope better with the stress caused by biological and social changes, the effects of peer pressure were reduced and their desire to be part of a group was positively addressed.