Challenges of caring for children with multiple impairments in Russia: the case study of the better practice boarding-home for children with intellectual impairments in St. Petersburg (Russia)

The achievements and challenges of social care for children with multiple impairments in Russian society are explored in this research paper on the basis of experience of boarding-homes for children with intellectual impairments. The major part of the research takes place at the better practice boarding-home in St. Petersburg. The research considers the model of disability which is used in Russian society, constraint of the caring and legislation systems for children with impairments, and how do children live their lives in these circumstances. In accordance with the findings at the better practice boarding-home the paper draws recommendations for changing Russian social policy and social care system for children with impairments, namely, subdividing of boarding-homes, combination of social and medical approaches to disability, changes in legislation system and creating new laws which are adequate to the needs and potentials of such children, and all children must be under the care of the Committee of Education, not only Social Committee.