Mothers of children with disabilities in Ukraine are highly motivated to find employment, but they face a number of obstacles. A recent comprehensive socio-psychological study by the NGOs ‘Episprosvita’ and ‘Academy of Knowledge’, entitled ‘Strong Mums’, revealed that this group lacks support at various levels. According to a survey of 609 mothers and a dozen in-depth interviews, existing problems have worsened due to the full-scale war – the destruction of infrastructure, the internal displacement of families and limited access to social services have made life particularly difficult for such families. The research showed that over 90% of respondents wish to work, yet systemic barriers hinder their efforts. Lack of access to respite care (temporary childcare), low digital literacy and strained communication with healthcare professionals are just the most common of these. All these factors form a solid evidence base for the development of state support programmes for mothers with disabled children.
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Employment and the main barriers
The researchers’ report highlights the varied employment patterns among mothers of children with disabilities. Some are formally employed on a full-time or part-time basis, others are engaged in casual work or the informal sector, whilst others are looking for work. Most of those who are temporarily out of work (housewives or on maternity leave) are willing to start working provided the conditions are favourable. However, the idea of formal employment is often held back by the fear of losing social benefits. The study documented cases where, after a mother returned to work, the family income barely increased due to the withdrawal of childcare benefits. This legal conflict makes formal employment economically unviable, so women prefer informal arrangements or remain unemployed.
When choosing a job, mothers look for flexible and remote options to combine earning an income with childcare. The vast majority of study participants consider remote work to be the most acceptable option. At the same time, poor mobile coverage in remote regions and a lack of reliable internet significantly limit such opportunities. Even where internet access is available, low levels of digital skills prevent them from reaping the benefits of online work. Many mothers are forced to bridge these gaps on their own: adult women are learning basic computer or smartphone skills to arrange medical appointments and stay in touch with their families. However, there is still a lack of programmes to improve digital literacy among adult women, particularly those who have been out of work for a long time.
Digital literacy and remote working
The survey findings show that digital literacy has emerged as one of the key factors determining the success of remote working for mothers of children with special needs. The survey results demonstrate that a significant proportion of mothers lack even basic internet and computer skills. Only 40–50% of respondents rate their level of digital knowledge as sufficient for remote work. Less tech-savvy women have only a basic grasp of how to use a smartphone, although many have been forced to learn at least how to use voice messaging apps to communicate with doctors. A lack of specialised equipment (such as a computer or a sat-nav) also prevents some mothers from working from home. In rural areas, the situation is exacerbated by slow internet, so even those women who want to work online face technical difficulties. When it comes to remote work, mothers prefer short, straightforward tasks and a gradual introduction to new tools. Researchers note that digital literacy courses and programmes providing equipment for families with disabled children could be effective solutions.
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The psychological and emotional state of mothers
In addition, the researchers examined the mental health of the mothers. Screening using the GAD-7 scale revealed that around 45% of those surveyed had moderate or high levels of anxiety. PHQ-9 scores indicated that approximately 40% of mothers exhibited symptoms of clinically significant depression. This burden of caregiving responsibilities is compounded by feelings of psychological fatigue and burnout. Only a small proportion of respondents receive regular psychological support or participate in self-help groups. The lack of emotional support proved to be one of the most acute issues – many mothers feel socially isolated. As experience from international initiatives shows, comprehensive support (ranging from psychological counselling to a network of experienced mentors) could significantly improve their situation. International experts emphasise that the economic activity of such women plays a key role in family well-being and in reducing the risk of poverty; therefore, investment in their support must be a priority.
Recommendations for action
Based on the data collected, the authors of the study have formulated a series of recommendations for employers, the government and civil society organisations. In particular, these include the introduction of flexible working arrangements and remote working schemes that take into account the specific needs of mothers of children with disabilities. An important step is the development of government information campaigns on accessible social services and respite care. The advocacy component of the ‘Strong Mums’ project also involves training HR specialists in inclusive recruitment methods and fostering a positive attitude within workplaces towards families with disabled children. All these measures aim to reduce the psychological pressure on mothers, ensure their social support and, ultimately, increase their economic independence.
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