Nilüfer: “Stronger Together: Job Coach Supported Employment Project”

The "Stronger Together: Job Coach Supported Employment Project" emerged from Nilüfer Municipality's long-standing commitment to social inclusion and equal opportunities for vulnerable groups. The initiative was developed to address the structural barriers that individuals with intellectual disabilities, autism and Down syndrome face when trying to access sustainable employment and to promote equal opportunities in the local economy.

The project is based on a job coach–supported methodology that combines personalised pre-employment training, workplace integration and continuous monitoring. Job coaches work as facilitators between employees, families and employers, supporting the transition from training to employment and supporting long-term job retention and workplace adaptation. At the same time, awareness activities such as "Barrier-Free Communication" seminars are organised to strengthen inclusive workplace cultures.

The initiative is implemented through collaboration between the municipality, families and employers from sectors such as food production, retail, manufacturing and social enterprises. Through this multi-stakeholder ecosystem, the project creates an enabling environment for inclusive employment while strengthening cooperation between public institutions and the private sector.

By 2025, a total of 13 individuals had been successfully integrated into the labour market. The implementation included intensive support mechanisms such as workplace visits, family meetings and pre-employment training sessions. Beyond individual employment outcomes, the practice contributes to strengthening inclusive local employment policies and supporting a more participatory and equitable approach to labour market inclusion at the municipal level.

Learn more about: 

https://www.nilufer.bel.tr/haber/nilufer-belediyesi-nden-engelli-istihdamina-ornek-proje