Disabled children "abandoned" in Ukrainian institutions - BBC News

There is evidence that thousands of disabled Ukrainian children have been forgotten and abandoned in institutions that can’t look after them.
The human rights organisation, Disability Rights International, has carried out an investigation and found children with severe disabilities tied to beds in overrun children’s homes unable to cope.
The BBC has been given exclusive access to an institution in western Ukraine, where disabled children from the east have been left by their carers who fled to neighbouring countries.
Huw Edwards presents BBC News at Ten reporting by Dan Johnson in Ukraine.
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[@lindsey2410]

I’ve worked with children with severe ASD. They understand a lot more than most people realize. Utterly heartbreaking.

[@heha9752]

This isn’t ASD… this is severe mental and physical neglect.

[@sisfantasto7004]

Ohlala🤨! An intelligent remark. Not. What you see in this video is not autism. These are children with multiple disabilities of the brain and body. Quite a lot of them have rachitis, a bone disease which occurs, when you don't get enough Sun whilst growing up. Which means that they have been locked up all the time all their lives. This is a crime against children!!!These children have the same right to live just like everyone else. Shocking.

[@lindsey2410]

@@heha9752 I agree that this is severe neglect. I was commenting on the statement made by one of the caretakers when she asked “do you see any intellect here?”. As if to say they are not able to understand their situation. They understand. They feel pain. They are aware of their suffering. Like I said, utterly heartbreaking.

[@alexwatson5507]

Where did you work? Iraq? Afghanistan? Syria?

[@mikemhz]

@@lindsey2410 Yes, that woman is ignorant.

[@SusanA1056]

As a disabled adult, my heart breaks for these children. Just so tragic. They are after all, human beings. May God keep you all safe.

[@angham3829]

Philippians 4:6-7 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

[@SusanA1056]

@@angham3829 Thank you. Blessings from Him upon you as well.

[@emmanuelmushi3072]

@@angham3829 Amen 🙏🙏🙏

[@Thomas-nc9fz]

God has ignored them thus far, what makes you think he will care now?

[@angham3829]

@@Thomas-nc9fz Mark 11:22 “And Jesus answering saith unto them, Have faith in God.”

[@Evie3331]

This is absolutely heartbreaking, all children need to be loved, safe and protected 😢😢😢

[@zainabjalloh279]

It's so heartbreaking 😥😥😥😭😭😭, putin God will punish you for your evil deeds

[@davidoflinn4101]

Y take them in then

[@Evie3331]

@@davidoflinn4101 if only I had the time and resources.

[@lizardnuts2550]

@@davidoflinn4101 because its better than turning them away

[@Isochest]

@@zainabjalloh279 Not just Putin. People enabled Putin Biden Blair Macron Merkel etc...

[@dalasmueller2603]

My husband and I adopted two disabled children from Ukraine seven years ago. The conditions I witnessed even back then are incomparably worse than anything shown in this video. My husband and I have wondered if the orphanages and institutions were being abandoned. Profound neglect was rampant before full-scale war broke out. It is all horrifically tragic, but the humanitarian crisis for these children has been going on for much longer than the last few months and involves many other countries and much more severe conditions. If your heart is moved by these images, support families trying to fundraise to bring these kids home. Consider adoption yourself. There are so many children in need.

[@dyawr]

True, I remember how it was in Romania with *regular* orphans after the revolution... it was over the span many years, with the help of international ONGs, activists & so on (and entering EU), that such institutions largely closed down and there are better options available. I don't know the situation for the disabled children, though.

[@FronteirWolf]

@@dyawr It was bad in 2017 when I was in School Aid Romania. Very often charities are the ones providing the better options. You can help by supporting those charities. You don't need to adopt. Another thing you can do is to go out there your self and practically help the charities out. You can still adopt, but there are other ways to help.

[@Chelletryingtosmile]

Thanks. I am not in a position to adopt with our accommodation situation, as a mother to my 4 year old and advocate for my schizopherenic mum/ASD brother. How can we support fundraising?

[@dalasmueller2603]

Reece’s Rainbow raises money specifically for these children. Adopt Together is another fundraising platform for adoptive families and you could potentially search and find families who are adopting disabled children internationally.

[@dalasmueller2603]

@Pixieton, yes there are plenty of charities helping orphans. Missionaries and OT/PT groups had visited my children before we got there. But what good is a few days of seeing a PT when you are still living in horrendously abusive and neglectful orphanages or adult mental institutions? The reality for most of these kids is that adoption is their ONLY way out. There are no charities eradicating the horrific living conditions that exist. They provide peripheral support and that sometimes can temporarily benefit the children. But no one is revolutionizing the care or the framework of care these kids get. Please don’t minimize adoption as one of many options. Adoption is not the answer to every crisis, but it is the only substantive answer for these children at this time.

[@cherylbowen4229]

It is difficult looking after one child with disabilities let alone this many. Those caretakers that stayed are a blessing to these children.

[@drush525]

I am a retired Police Officer and a Retired National Guardsman, I've been in horrible situations and thought I had seen it all. I've seen death and destruction all my life. The worst that humanity has to offer. I've never seen anything that made me cry and pray deeply like this has made me!

[@angham3829]

Philippians 4:6-7 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

[@judiyoshino3399]

Retired police officer , maybe in Mayberry Minnesota, watch Patrick Lancaster channel and Lincoln Karim channel to connect dots.

[@lordlollops1]

@@judiyoshino3399 Lancaster is a paid Russian shill and spreads lies

[@trishaprett7721]

Me too.

[@teeeee113]

@@judiyoshino3399 what are you trying to say? Just spit it out if you want to make your point

[@paulkeenan2691]

Enormous admiration to the Director and the team for their compassionate professionalism- Many facilities in the UK struggle with a similar lack of resources- (and they dont have an excuse of a war). The care quality commission ( CQC) reports highlight this.

[@frederickpile3599]

Same here in france.

[@danielwhyatt3278]

Yes this's also going to have to be adressed after the war. Hopefully though the UK and other European countries can help with this as well.

[@BellaElla13]

True and staff shortages, even though there is no war in the UK. The trouble is this children are looked after by institutions rather than by foster parents who would have taken these children with them if emigrating or moving to a place of safety. Basements where most Ukrainians hide during bombings are not a place where these children can stay.

[@leahblau3333]

Daniel Whyatt.Forget it.The nhs in the UK is crippled beyond helping its own,the UK is not in a position to take on the critical cases seen on this video.The abuse and neglect of kids without families to fight for their rights in the UK is abysmal!

[@WorldOfKnowledgeTH]

@@BellaElla13 and how would having Foster parents really change the situation? Sorry but I was fostered in London when I was a kid and tbh I wouldn't want that on anybody else. The Foster system is disgusting and extremely biased towards the delinquent children who are nearly always the forerunners for criminlas such as thieves and drug dealers the Foster system gives them flats and pays for furniture etc Whilst the good kids end up with nothing. I was one of those good kids, I was literally made homeless by the care system in the uk and they abandoned me. I wouldn't wish that on any child!

[@georginashanti4605]

What a terrible situation. I won't be judgemental. All I can say is that these children need stimulation, music, language, movement and most of all human interaction. I hope that they eventually receive the care & love they need. I think of Ukraine every day & I pray for peace in their homeland and safety for all refugees everywhere. 🇺🇦💙💛

[@raulanaya1643]

Ukrainians left them.

[@nataliekraftman7728]

@@raulanaya1643 They were left by animals from "donetsk people republic". They are not Ukrainians. I doubt they are people at all.

[@KB-tu4zw]

@@raulanaya1643 Zelinsky needs to be on top of this situation immediately. I understand there is suffering many places but where was one hero for these kids?

[@afrarunduml1170]

Nobody cared in the first place. These children are neglected since the first day of their lives. Do you see the rocking? It is hospitalization. These children are put in beds their whole live without any stimulation. Do you see the teenagers that look like little children? That is malnutrition, to less to eat and to drink (less to drink, less diapers) I'm a nurse and working in a specialized instition for people with disabilities. We took a whole "orphanage" in from the Ukraine. I can tell you, I'm in tears. I never saw something like this. One boy already died because of this treatment.

[@darynkakasalapy6242]

@@KB-tu4zw It's not living now in Ukraine/ It's running, hiding, surviving. Can't get basic things, petrol can't be found even in relative;y safe areas. People are running, fleeing .. those who can. Old ones, disabled are left behind or don't want to leave. Anyway I could tell you more although you won't get it as thankfully you never had these situations in your life..

[@lottiebastille3162]

The heartbreaking thing in, the neglect these children face has been going on for decades, and the war has made it ten times worse. As a disabled person, knowing this is happening, hurts my soul. They're being dumped as though they're less than human, when they desperately need love, care and protection.

[@Isochest]

I know how this feels. A NT person experienced my pain for a flashing moment. They burst into tears. Their arrogance makes me puke but was glad this entity experienced my pain for a moment

[@irkenempire2849]

You're talking as if they'd be better off with animals, animals eat their disabled to save up the wasted energy on giving birth to them. For us, the disabled are emotional commodities that cause extreme joy for a bare minimum of an achievement and great pity for any downfall.

[@Isochest]

@@irkenempire2849 Well that makes everyone a commodity and a waste of energy especially those who feel entitled and seek power over others. Rejoice!

[@irkenempire2849]

@@Isochest Disabled are special case

[@Isochest]

@@irkenempire2849 Nobody is better than anybody else. If we all thought like lizards we wouldn't survive. And lizards only take what they need unlike self entitled people

[@jessica-otterrows3284]

This has been happening way longer then just the war. The conditions that children are in at “ Orphanages” in Ukrainian are so terrible. My heart breaks.

[@canaryinacoalmine7267]

Ukraine is not a wealthy place. I hope now that it has been exposed that the USA spends just a fraction of what we have been sending in weapons is sent to support these children. So far our government has done nothing, Biden and Harris have said nothing.

[@jesusisluv2905]

That is true , how disgusting of these people where is their compassion.

[@superfox781]

Breaks my heart to see this. I've worked with kids like this in the past. Such great characters and great kids just a bit different. They wanna smile, laugh, live, share and be loved like everyone else. Really hurts to see this. I really hope some help or at least relief can be given to these kids and caretakers. I can't imagine the strain on both sides here. Horrible.

[@gayletaylor7976]

At first when I heard that lots of staff had ran away I was disgusted but when I think about it I don’t think we can blame. War is scary. You could die at any moment. The staff that ran away maybe have their own child and other family members who need them and depend on them. It’s a very hard situation to be in. Are the staff really expected to forget their own family and instead stay with the disabled kids. People are scared and don’t want to die so I think it’s a normal reaction to run away to a safer location. It’s human nature to want to survive. I don’t think it’s fair for us to be disgusted with the staff who ran away for a multitude of reasons like wanting to protect their own children, other family members and of course themselves. It’s a very hard decision to make. I’m not saying I’m glad they left the kids behind or anything. It’s a horrible situation to be in. Let’s not be mad at the staff for choosing to run and save their own lives and instead be angry with Putin for creating the situation in the first place where staff had to choose between running and staying with those disabled kids. Let’s remember who the real enemy is here. Those kids are in a dire situation because of one man!

[@IAMGiftbearer]

Well honestly there is a problem nation-wide of aids not being screened well enough to see if they are really serious about taking this responsibility in the first place. This happens in the US and there is no war going on here. I know this first-hand as I am approved for a program to have an aid in my home 5 days a week 7 hours per day and most don't view it as a career. They think it's just something to give them a paycheck until they can find something better. I am 61 years old with ASD and multiple medical conditions, homebound and wheelchair bound and as we speak my aid did not show up today. I try my best to fend for myself when that happens but it has taken me literally an hour to make a sandwich, some cut strawberries, and coffee. There are some who literally wouldn't be able to feed themselves in the event they were left alone. I have a background in patient advocacy and I just can't condone this type of behavior. It's OK to be scared but it's what you do with it that matters and in my book you don't leave the most vulnerable to fend for themselves and just think of yourself. That shows lack of commitment. In Ukraine this is less common because they culturally have more of a sense of social responsibility than we do in most Western countries and it extends outside one's immediate family. That is part of why this is so shocking to see that they all took off. You compare their actions against those of people who stayed or left but took with them completely dependent babies, elderly, and disabled people, even pets, and it really comes down to the individual's mind-set. The owner of the facility could have left too, but he didn't because he felt an inner sense of responsibility to these children. I hope the parents will come and get these kids and go to Poland or Germany where they can get the care they need.

[@RockDove5212]

Yes, it is understandable. It also makes me realise how very very brave the people who stay to care for them are. They are basically prepared to die for them. Jesus said the greatest love you can give someone is to lay down your life for them and this is what some of these brave and selfless people have done ❤

[@tylerrobinson1149]

Where are the moms that gave birth to these children?

[@wordzmyth]

@@tylerrobinson1149 this shows there is a culture of institutionalising disabled people and leaving them. It was the old way of doing things but seems shocking today.

[@natalias50]

@@wordzmyth I’d imagine that if the country helped more with care costs for those kids, part of them would be with their families.

[@katiehettinger7857]

My grandson has autism and he would be like these children separated from our family and his school. He is nonverbal, kinetic and self harms when distressed. To an outsider he would appear disconnect from what is going on around him, with is far from the case. I see his behavior in some of these children they are more aware than they appear, unable to communicate and process the world differently than you or I. 😢

[@cautionhumanbeing749]

They are far more sensitive to noise and vibration and I imagine the experience of war to be ten times what it is for a Neurotypical person.

[@peachyrider9987]

I've taught kids like this and my heart breaks for these children. May God give their caregivers extra strength. Their courage is immeasurable. Prayers in route for everyone involved.🙏💙🙌

[@Pemmont107]

Maybe god could stop giving children crippling disabilities when they're born? That would be nice.

[@hamdanbinmohammedbinrashid5002]

For how long have you worked with them, and do you still wish to continue?

[@audreymartin2515]

I cried when the young girl was able to make a connection and prove her functional level.

[@emilia2411]

how much can they function? some speical needs kids I work with cant even form a thought or a proper reaction, they only have instinct with no logic

[@WriterProfessor]

I'm a parent of an 11-year-old child who has severe ASD, and this story is heartbreaking. That said, I'm not sure it is fair to say that all of the children here were "abandoned." The truth is probably more complicated. Of course, there are some parents who would abandon their disabled children: the abandonment of the disabled is a sad yet common theme in our world, during war and peace, prosperity and poverty, etc. However, war and its disruption on families means that a lot of people were probably separated and not by choice. For example, some of these children look as if they were already living in institutions (either for acute short-term or long-term/permanent treatment); some of their families probably lived nearby and could visit them daily (protocols such as COVID permitting, etc.), and so when the Russian army invaded they were able (or should have been able) to take their children with them before fleeing westward. However, I'm betting that a sizable portion of these families lived in smaller towns and cities or rural communities that were some distance from their child's institution, who might have visited or taken their children home on weekends and holidays, etc., and were thus cutoff from their children by these initial pincer movements of Russian troops. Where are they now? Perhaps the parents cannot locate their children, or they could have been forced to locate inside of Russia and are unable to leave or communicate. The parents or guardians could also be dead or injured, and the authorities are still trying to find (or are unable to find) the next of kin. There are all sorts of reasons why these poor, unfortunate children are in this predicament. I can only think what our family would be facing right now if this had happened here. We should blame Putin first. Then let's send aid for these children and those who are caring for them: bless them all!

[@susanplatt5331]

It's not the parents who have abandoned them, it's the staff who were caring for them. I understand them wanting to flee but how can they leave them like that without making arrangements. It's not just heartbreaking, it's disgusting.

[@WriterProfessor]

@@susanplatt5331 I had not thought of the staff, but yes, I agree, though if hospice admin had made no plan, then the staff members might have had their hands tied. Would the law protect staff members who took some of these children with them while they themselves fled the Russian invasion, or would they later be charged as kidnappers?

[@breezybre2670]

100% the parents are not what they are taking about here. We have adopted a child from this country . These children are in what they call mental institutions. Children are routinely drugged with adult sedatives, tied down, etc. What ypu are seeing is totally normal pre war. There is major neglect, sexual abuse etc. Do not think it has anything to do with the war. The war may be the only way these children get any international attention.

[@pauliewalnuts240]

@@susanplatt5331 its absolutely the parents who abandoned them (besides the exceptions stated above such as extreme distance, travel through front lines, a parents death, etc). Since when is your child not your responsibility? Blaming low wage care givers is unrealistic. Large sums of money are needed to care for even 1of these young people. The workers who fled are looking after their own families well-being which will always come before a job. This is a complicated issue and placing blame does nothing positive, but you could argue it's the directors fault for not making arrangements to evacuate the children, or to provide better care. He was quick to say the last girl was blind & unable to speak when she clearly was..which raises multiple questions with me.

[@VortexVisionary]

The parents are most likely dead, the staff cant take them without informing parents. Best they can do is call authorities and run.

[@garryjohnston650]

I had friends who 20+ years ago visited this, and went back to devote their lives to help these kids. It's something that didn't happen in the last little while.

[@mehere8038]

Yeh, I remember these pictures from when the wall came down

[@garryjohnston650]

@@mehere8038 it happened 20 years ago when they left...

[@mehere8038]

@@garryjohnston650 I remember it as something that had always been happening & when the wall came down, western cameras got in to document it & raise awareness of the issue. It resulted in fund raising & tbh, these photos now aren't as bad as back then, so I guess some progress has been made but yeh, it's not new, it's a generational problem & videoes like this could have been made at anytime, not just during the war, it's only motivation to make them that impacts if they are seen or not

[@steveclark5357]

this does not surprise me, I became disable 22 years ago, I lost my life along with my leg, throughout the years almost every person I know has left me behind, we disable are seen as worthless

[@_natashav_]

I am so sorry to hear that. You deserve better.

[@steveclark5357]

@@_natashav_ neither the children in this video or myself can believe that ma'am because the truth is we are not needed in any way, we can not contribute the society in any meaningful constructive manner, we are a deficit, we are expendable

[@Courtesyyy]

You dersved so much better in life

[@steveclark5357]

@@Courtesyyy I am happy and content as to how my life has turned out, I have grown old and happy, my life was the best life that I could have lived, if one can not be happy with they have, then one can never be happy, I am happy

[@Courtesyyy]

@@steveclark5357 I am Glad that you are Happy, Keep a bright smile til the end,mate ^_^

[@cinema7717]

Мое уважение тем кто рядом в такой трудной ситуации, рядом с этими не винными мучениками ангелами детьми. Дай Бог что б даровал вам милость в обоих мирах Ин ша Алла

[@osamabinchoppin5926]

Holy shit my heart is broke seeing this. Godbless the woman & everyone else genuinely trying to help them. Very sad. Be grateful this could have or could be anyone of us

[@richhaytonNZ]

Absolutely heartbreaking

[@kerrytakaira3732]

I am mother of 12 year old daughter who autism. Watching this is heart breaking for children with special needs going through war it sad . Pray for special needs children and adults of ukraine 🇺🇦 🙏 💙💛

[@andyhelliwell4955]

Autistic people are loving, creative and trustworthy, most only have one true friend for life. Most autistic people suffer more at the hands of other people and their undkindness towards them, than they suffer from autism it's self.

[@narrativequestion]

the ukrainie adults abandoned these children. you are a disgrace.

[@Akela25]

Why don't you pray for the children which Azov nazis hold hostages in the plant? BBC didn't tell you that Ukrainian troops use civilians as a shield?

[@bollocks5724]

Shut the fuck up, your people abandoned these kids left them to die, pray for Ukrainian? 😂 😂 😂

[@katiehettinger7857]

Hi Kerry, your heartfelt message and mine triggered the trolls. I worried about children like our Nicky in the chaos of the war in Ukraine. I was happy to hear President Zelenskyy released the fathers of children with autism to go with their families. May we never share their experience. Love. ☺👍

[@chantelcuddemi7646]

This is so sad! I'm disabled myself, and this truly breaks my heart!

[@arbsan8366]

Tied to beds???!!!! And left by the carers to flee the conflict???!!! This is absolutely heartbreaking 😔 And for her say what intellect do they have??? Wow I just can’t believe what I’m seeing🥺

[@impagain]

I wish I could adopt even just one of them, but I'm disabled and poor myself. My heart goes out to them, and I pray this helps bring light to their situation so people who have the ability to help, do.

[@kristinwallace6551]

You never assume that someone can't understand. It is very damaging to do so. I pray these children get the care they need and deserve. I also know it isn't their carers fault as they are living in a war. They are doing the best they can. I pray they all get help and love.

[@Lauraz1]

That's a very wise principle🙏❤️

[@r98-t1o]

Unfortunately, most "carers" in these facilities in countries like Ukraine are NOT doing the best that they can, that's the whole problem. These children are treated as incapable inmates that are a burden on most of their carers. Of course there are some amazing Ukrainian people and carers that do take great care of these needy children, but they are few.

[@Pemmont107]

@@r98-t1o That's a sweeping statement to make.

[@r98-t1o]

@@Pemmont107 Well, it's true.. I'm Russian and I grew up in Ukraine, it's not a secret in these countries, pretty much everyone knows, but no one is able to do something.

[@chrisi7127]

@@r98-t1o I'd honestly argue that you have no right to talk as a russian.

[@goldencashmere28]

I have worked with children with disabilities and these children understand a lot of what is going on.... How can their carers just leave them like this?! Unacceptable!

[@flowerpower8722]

There's a war on. Maybe we're not a position to judge.

[@boredutopia]

Maybe they have their own kids at home and wants them to get to safety. in war, your family safety becomes priority...this kids have parents who abandoned them,so state is the one which needs to solve this. In my country during war whole such facility with kids adults teens and remain staff was in occupaied area,city was cut off, fell, everyone was shot inside it. So I don't blame at all staff who left, they have their own families, who they had to care for,their kids, state is the one which needs to find solution. But let's be honest,I have disability, survived war, suffer from severe PTSD so I can say this, no one gives a shit for such people,during war time, there is no countries who will take such people,not in big numbers at least. Coz they have enough of their own. Me as a handicapped, can't even apply for a stay permit and working permit in big number of countries coz I am disabled. So don't be delusional that anyone will give a crap about those kids, in the eyes of a states they are cost which will never contribute to society. So no one will actually push this agenda, if place where they are falls all remain staff will flee saving their lives, leaving them to mercy of occupators. Happened in my country. Kids who are from urban places have a chance coz mentality of people and their families is different,rural east Slavic areas, wellcome to 1945 when it comes to such kids,shame, burden and atrocity for families..

[@glormoparch5154]

Stress on top of stress. What can we do from here? Not escalating anything to get kids like this sedated and transported out via helicopter or whatever. Easier than Thai kids in a cave.

[@Kat-gp6gj]

@@boredutopia Which country are you from?

[@boredutopia]

@@Kat-gp6gj one of the former Yugoslavian countries..

[@Derlei]

Of all the reports I have read and Videos I have seen about the Ukraine-Russian Crisis, this one guts me the most. It really breaks my heart and I broke down just seeing this. These kids are the most vulnerable of the vulnerables. More direct humanitarian aid is needed in Ukraine.

[@coolcat6103]

Yeah but you won’t fall for it next time

[@Christina-71]

We've already sent $1.3 billion just from the U.S. alone. But since we don't get to do the distribution of those funds, things like this will always happen. We have no guarantee it's not going into the pockets of corrupt officials. Their government should be ashamed of this, there's no excuse.

[@JanBetonnetje1]

Patriotic mom... Come on... 1.3 billion is peanuts compared to the 500 billions destroyed.

[@TASIAawful1]

Same just absolutely unbearable

[@tracyhedges3142]

These children need help right now immediately not 1 day but now

[@peety6323]

I wish I could go there to help them. This is sooooo sad 😭

[@Arcenia13]

Such beautiful children left behind is so heartbreaking May God protect them and shower those individuals with wisdom, empathy, and love with strength who care for them.

[@lucasrem]

UN = Corruption! FCK THEM Just declare a save zone, let all troops in! regiem change! Keep on Bombing till the communist and Allah is gone now!

[@hamdanbinmohammedbinrashid5002]

But the most important thing is that they have been rescued

[@raysmith6829]

I respect these caregivers. These kids are the true victims even before the war they're mental health disability system in the Ukraine is still set in the 50s

[@grammiesspirit4922]

It is the same, or worse, all over the world, not just Ukraine. It certainly amazes me what subjects are discussed when there is an easy target opened up. The disgraceful treatment of mentally/ cognitively impaired people is pitiful EVERYWHERE. Always has been, always will be. They very very rarely have a voice.....

[@heybaekie4219]

Yes Mr Smith me too I do salute all the care takers of this special children's 👍👍👍

[@sangeet9100]

@Thought Criminal how is reporting news propaganda?

[@daniels1263]

@@sangeet9100 they report a load of bullshit that’s what

[@emmacannon2011]

This is appalling and saddening, even though people are doing their best to look after the children in very difficult circumstances. @BBC: What can we do to help? Are there any organisations setting up aid for these children?

[@BrightBlueRose72]

This video clip struck a chord with me. It has me feelin so upset and full of helplessness. I want to reach out and help these awful unfortunate angels. They need to be taken out of there. What got me, was the little girl lying on her tummy and her legs severely crossed over. My brother was like this at birth, but he can now run! I know a hospital that can help that little girl, but as per usual it boils down to the cost of money. But them children cannot be left there in a war torn country with bombs landing beside them. Someone needs to get involved here with this desperate situation.

[@Christina-71]

It's disturbing that their government didn't evacuate them far before Russia invaded. The U.S. alone has sent over $1.3 billion in aid to Ukraine! But they couldn't be bothered to care about these children? It's horrible and they should be judged for this, not the care givers.

[@natalias50]

@@Christina-71 they have been evacuated from the East of Ukraine.

[@Christina-71]

@@natalias50 maybe now they have. But clearly that wasn't the case at the start of the invasion. How exactly were the caregivers supposed to evacuate them?

[@shimmer8289]

@@Christina-71 all due respect many children WERE sent to various countries. The children that are remaining have been sent to West Ukraine. UKRAINE is not the only country with this type of crisis in homecare for disabled. Bulgaria, Romania and other countries of the former ussr have similar conditions in peacetime. You can view documentaries on u tube.

[@albertg8917]

Great piece BBC. It sheds a lot of insight. Hopefully aid follows. These kids didn’t choose to have disabilities

[@e.g.4483]

There should be punishment for the parents who left them behind. This is criminal to leave your own child during war.

[@shimmer8289]

@@e.g.4483 in general these children are institutionalized from birth. It is not like the west or eu countries. Many parents are poverty stricken and the social support system is not as advanced as it is elsewhere.

[@Isochest]

@@e.g.4483 The Politicians too. The DARVO Divos. Post Soviet countries have a legacy of throwing their Neurodiverse children away. They are not good Plantation Slaves. That is why.

[@shimmer8289]

@Elsa it is very sad that even in societies like the West where support for parents is available this still happens. I'm glad you are happy with your parents now. These institutions are so sad. I wish you the best.

[@hannahadamson7168]

No, “unfortunately nature decided their fate”, what a comment. This isn’t just about resources, it’s about lack of empathy and the belief that people with disabilities are less than. I have epilepsy with frequent seizures, my fate in the uk isn’t to be tied to a bed. Nobody sees me as less than, if anything I’m respected for every time I stand back up, instead these children/adults are being tied down.xxx

[@vyxairotciv4333]

Poor babies! Thank you for the ones who are helping

[@sjladuke75]

This is heartbreakingly disturbing. As a nurse, years ago I worked with children from Willowbrook State School closed on Staten Island after being exposed for heinous abuses & atrocities. These children remind me so much of the children I cared for in a residential group home environment. The rocking is self stimulating & when standing is indicative of spending hours if not longer in straight jackets. Children will self abuse because feeling anything (including pain) is part of the pattern of neglect. I pray these children get the help & assistance needed from the world. This is inexcusable.

[@J0hnL3m0nz]

I wish i could adopt all of these girls. hopefully their circumstances change for the better soon.

[@Chydova]

Maybe there is some way we can help financially?

[@FronteirWolf]

Yes there is, find charities that support special needs children in Ukraine. This was an issue prior to the war.

[@Chydova]

@@FronteirWolf of course, its an issue not only in Ukraine. I was just giving a suggestion. Also need to be careful that there is no scam , but that its actually going towards the children.

[@tylerrobinson1149]

I have Asperger’s and am blind in one eye among other disability’s as well. I take care of my self and don’t not trust anyone else for any help. My disability’s were never acknowledge by anyone growing up not even my family. I was even eventually abandoned at 16….. I was taken in eventually by an older brother who manipulated and abused me. Been a tough hard life and I am finally comfy enough now to look back and try to make sense of it for myself. But yea was not that long ago that no one used to care about us at all and autism was a bad word so it really doesn’t surprise me that they would take the opportunity to abandon there burden.

[@zozoprofessorofeverything3469]

As a stepdad of a special needs child, this really breaks my heart,I've shed many tears for these poor people, it hurts me to see this, so i couldn't imagine their heartache

[@SMA1mommy]

As a Mother to a extremely disabled terminally ill child this breaks my heart. I am constantly making sure that just incase I have what I need to care for my child. I have fought tooth and nail for my child's right to live how ever long God gives my child. My child has SMA type1 severe and I also have 2 Autistic children on top of that and I'm terminally ill several times over myself. All of my children and myself live together at my own home. I would help children like this even more severe if you look up SMA type 1. I have many medical certificates for care because of my child's health need's to be able to bring my child home. I hope and pray these children can be placed in loving caring forever homes. Where they are loved unconditionally eternally. Much love and Blessings to these children and the people trying to care for them. I cannot imagine the situation with dealing with the war. These people that did stay and care for these children are HERO'S. 😭❤️🕊🙏🙏🙏🕊

[@gyrthez246]

I would rethink your praises for people that run these facilities.. There have been many cases where kids were actually put with families elsewhere, managed to grow and develop, and then they took them back to Ukraine never to let them out of the facility where they just regressed.

[@badclown08]

Worse than a dog pound, you can just feel that every child there needs comfort and physical touch. When my 5 yr old grandson asks me to scratch his back at night I can feel his body relax as he drifts of to sleep. I feel so badly for these helpless people.

[@anitasnider8494]

My heart is breaking for these sweet innocent children, how can you simply walk away?? They all need special help, they all need love,protection, nurturing, and care.. I have a son with disabilities and I could never leave him alone. Praying these children get the help they so desperately need and deserve.

[@goingslowlynowhere]

Many, if not most, of these families will have been in a situation akin to several kids drowning. You can try to save one, and most likely succeed, or you can try to save them all, and most likely everyone will drown. There is nothing simple about this.

[@neethuks1186]

yes you are right these children needs special care and that cannot be given by the caretakers in such a war zone because they have to save their own life and their own child's life. so it is not a fault

[@sammysheartsgoodwin8835]

Its so heart breaking, those poor children. These ķids are still human beings. I understand that life is tough for everyone there with the war crime. Those kids deserve alot more. I have disabilities and i would like to help them. They are strap down to the beds thats so wrong. What about human rights.

[@danielwhyatt3278]

I can only imagine how hard it is to balance the care you're wanting to give many of them when you're also facing shelling and death at the same time and many of them not fully understanding what is going on or won't listen. It must just tip so many over the edge eventually to resort to doing something like that. From how much these events can hurt the human mind, and even more so for these disabled children, i wouldn't be surprised for some if they ended up in mental asylum or something before transitioning out of it after a few years sadly. In those places they sometimes have to resort to strapping patients down at night or even the day as well, so this doesn't feel like a large stretch to me. But of course I'm not condoning their former carers actions, just tryng to say that people do things under stress when the pressure gets to much to them that needs to be taken into account.

[@katiehettinger7857]

There are not enough carers or the correct facilities to care for them. Some won't stay in bed any other way, caretakers and the other children must sleep. Try not to judge, give them grace, they are staying and doing things not to their liking, but out of need.

[@MrWolff__]

leave them

[@harrietharlow9929]

@@MrWolff__ Wow. Hope you never become disabled. How heartless.

[@MrWolff__]

@@harrietharlow9929 im as heartless as the ukraines and polish and russians

[@happyanyland4627]

I feel so sad for the children! My heart breaks...

[@rebeccamccready1135]

As a person with a learning disabilities it hart breaks me to see this I wish they found some were the right support and I hope and pray for that ♥️

[@dudewrapsupreme]

2:46 dude was 100% okay with feeding that girl a flower he just found

[@Nova_Ash]

Poor kids breaks my heart

[@theobservationsreal3291]

21st century unbelievable

[@7stars2love]

OMG this is so heart breaking💔💔💔😭 Praying for you kids🙏🙏🙏🙏❤️

[@johnsnopkowski4079]

I feel so bad for these poor kids there people like all of us I hope they are safe

[@christinecolon5472]

I volunteered as a teenager at an institution for physical and mentally disabled people. I was never in a situation like it is in Ukraine. To understand the mindset of parents who leave their children in institutions like that one has to be in their situation. Many of these children need specialized care. Ukraine has never been a rich country and most people have to work to support themselves. It takes a special person to care for these people. You have to have a heart for it. It is more than a job. War is a terrible thing and I understand that some of these caretakers got scared and left the country. Unless we are in their shoes we will not know what we would do in a similar situation. Another problem is that in former east block countries these handicapped children have no rights. I don't think it changed much since Ukraine declared independence from the Soviet Union. It was expected to place handicapped children into these institutions and forget that they existed. The caretakers in most cases were most likely not paid very well and saved themselves. We have no right to judge them because we are not confronted by war like it is in Ukraine. May they all stay safe and may this conflict be over soon.

[@no-oneinparticular7264]

I'm retired, but this is reminding me of my work with learning disabilities, now called learning difficulties. It's awful, they need to be looked after properly. Enable, not disable was our motto.

[@lordlollops1]

Thank you Dan Johnson for highlighting this absolutely heartbreaking situation, I hope these beautiful children are moved to a safe and proper environment that they deserve

[@nadiahope1175]

Just when you think you've seen all the devastation, sadness and miisery, THAT tops it all! 😢🙏❤️

[@jessicadale4418]

If my family had to flee a dangerous situation, and I broke my legs and couldn't keep up...I would encourage them to leave me behind to save the rest of my family. It's very sad but that is the reality here...if I have 5 children, and one is severely disabled and would almost certainly slow or stop the process of getting my other 4 children and the rest of my family to safety then is it fair to sacrifice their safety?...and if you stayed behind who would care for your other children if you were killed? It's a terrible situation all the way around. It's a terrible decision to be faced with and we should not judge these people because we haven't been faced with their reality. I pray these children are cared for and kept safe....and I pray for the families that had to leave....these were extremely hard choices for everyone involved...this is the reality of war

[@hamdanbinmohammedbinrashid5002]

Such a wonderful woman with a loving heart,please where are you from

[@melclo3641]

I would take in that little girl Oksana in a heartbeat, can't talk, she can understand and sing, I'm in tears again now, bless all of you.

[@patthonsirilim5739]

as a health care woker i can tell you that the system barely functions for vunrable patient during normal times but in war time with lack of food water and surrport not to mention danger i cant imagine what the healthcare staff will have to do to take care of there patients.

[@kaiserslavaniaashur1623]

“What intelegt can you see here?” These people given the right facilites could show more care and love for others than you could ever wish for!

[@DeboraDavies]

This is one of the most sad things I have ever seen! These children were abandoned by the staff that fled Ukraine! God bless the ones that stayed behind with them! They need to be rescued and taken to a safe country! They need help! Please bring them to UK! ❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@hamdanbinmohammedbinrashid5002]

There are still many ugly news behind that

[@gracehorton3315]

I feel so bad for them I lost my disabled son this year, breaks my heart all over again .

[@Girlbye1111]

Really sad, and Disrespectful towards those young souls

[@enigmasshadow9435]

Im shocked this happens and shocked this video Doesnt get the attention it deserves

[@xMaverickFPS]

I don't think Britain or the States can criticize Ukraine for this. Literally the entire world scoffs at mental health. We all need to do better.

[@e.g.4483]

This is a war crime. Parents abandoned their own children to flee. Not every person deserves to be considered for refuge. The parents of these children do not deserve to be housed or protected anywhere. The EU needs to rescue these kids and their carers. Then find who their parents are and deport them back to Ukraine.

[@ZsaZsa2222]

Sending so much light and love.

[@gregoryM8105]

we need to find a way to send people and money

[@illiniwood]

What is it meant by "light"? How do you send illumination to someone?

[@catmom2526]

sooo sad 😔 this isn't ok. poor kids. I hope they get love and care!

[@eastonmartin5342]

What a beautiful doctor and nurse

[@wendiesweetwood5099]

As someone who has a disability and was raised by my aunt after no one had wanted me, I couldn't imagine living in those conditions. I was lucky enough to have my aunt who had allowed me to live as normal life as much as possible.

[@mothratemporalradio517]

Thank you so much for covering this issue as i have been worried about this precise likelihood all along. This is an outcome that is predictable regardless of race, nationality, religion, ethnicity or creed. Thank you for shining a light on the face of the invisible. It was clear to me that both people with mobility and other problems including frail aged and people using chairs as well as orphans would have almost no possible opportunity to either flee, find refuge or sustain themselves. Massive issue that until now i have seen barely touched except for one Al Jazeera article where i requested more coverage. A disabled orphan faces the worst possible outcomes. I wish i could help. My heart absolutely goes out to these souls. It's horror upon horror and, to put it metaphorically, a matter of potentially being shot by both sides when circumstances dictate an ethos of every man for himself, although some brave and kind souls will make exceptions. Edit: Halyna Kurylo, thank you for your work. I will try to look up your organisation. Thank you for caring for human beings regarded as subhuman and please stay safe.

[@MissSuicidalCupcake]

I'm a care worker who works with young people just like this, and it just breaks my heart. People like this are so misunderstood, they have wants and likes and dislikes, just like all of us. Each one is an individual that deserves care and support. For them to be left behind and forgotten is unfortunately unsurprising, but still heartwrenching.

[@lisashapiro4714]

Help these precious children.

[@bec5250]

This reminds me of what was coming out of Romania decades back. This is beyond awful. My heart breaks for every one of these precious, vulnerable children.

[@Theysopretty2]

But its been like this for years. Bbc have been documenting it for years. This isn't Russias fault it lies with Ukraine. They treat them terribly beforehand. Plenty of documentaries here on KZbin going back almost 15 years.

[@romystumpy1197]

Yes ive seen them all , and some of the directors are awful

[@Theysopretty2]

@@romystumpy1197 they treat the adults even worse

[@gaz_taottv3607]

Its understandable why the caretakers left, its war. It is sad but true. In war it will be very hard to transport those kids who are severely disabled, physically and mentally. Hats off to those that stayed behind for those kids. They show that humans can still so compassion even to those that were left behind. Hopefully the russian military have some compassion left for those kids and the caretakers that stayed behind with them.

[@gaz_taottv3607]

@Thought Criminal You think im serving bbc propaganda?! Dont make me laugh. One of my friends i play games with online is from ukraine. Its not just these kids that are left behind. there are elderly from retirement homes as well. No matter what country it is if it is war torn most of the severely disabled are the ones that get left behind. One of which being they dont have the funds nor the equipment to facilitate their needs, only those who has a brave and foolish sense of honor & justice stay behind. Also majority of the russian military doesnt give a damn who ends up in the crossfire since they are blindingly loyal to Putin. If russia actually gave a damn about civilian lives, they wouldnt have attacked civilian convoys full of refugees.

[@lynneharvey3462]

@Thought Criminal You have a string of comments in sentences that hardly makes sense and you’re just spewing rubbish. We see through the comments! We all see through them! The shock is - you think these comments are being taken on board!

[@eh1702]

@Thought Criminal the perfunctory is strong here.

[@zattefles]

@Thought Criminal Disgusting Russian troll. Karma will find you.

[@bjornsundberg1947]

The Russians have no sympathy for these children. Just as Nazi Germany did not save the lives of disabled children or handicapped adults.

[@jennifervan75]

03:11 I think it's selfish to let someone live with such a disability. It seems like they are I constant pain and can't even walk. It's sad

[@glittertoons63]

If your saying that because she is crying, we dont know her situation, she could be crying because they were abandoned. It cant be because of her legs, what do you think she did all her life cry? There are things people can do to help, you cant just kill every person with disabilities you assumed something for! I get it, you might think that her legs might have been in a bomb or something, but then they would have knocked her out or something, and her legs are crossed and small, it's more likely that she is paralyzed at birth. If it was an injury she would have had more normal looking legs.

[@jennifervan75]

@@glittertoons63 I am talking about her legs which she's obviously had since birth. You don't need a brain to know that. Anyway, she had to be picked up and she couldn't move and can never walk. She looks absolutely miserable. She can't live a fulfilling life. Anyway, I'm talking about severe disabilities

[@brecovers]

Poor babies :( ❤️

[@gillianbennett7497]

Heart breaking poor babies

[@hunchojack5532]

So sad… human instinct in fight or flight flee or risk being killed trying to help take some of the children with you…. Such a hard thing to understand or do. Speechless

[@motherhoodsbeauty9279]

@@M.9.m But why should they stay behind? So they can get praise by society of how selfless they are? I am sure they have their own family or themselves to take care of, it is what it is.

[@JosephSMiller]

Every time my friends complain about how terrible life is in America and how crazy things are getting, I think about videos like these and the true suffering of people elsewhere. This video is Utterly heartbreaking.

[@LoriCiani]

May I disagree with you on some points? This is the result of war. In conflicts such as this people tend to want to take care of their own family first. If that means leaving your job and becoming a refugee in the fight to survive then there is no conflict. Family comes first. Then there is always fear and the need to flee a frightening situation. I can see it both sides, from those who fled to those who stayed. Nobody knows how they will react in a war situation. Comparing this situation with American everyday life is like comparing oranges to eggs. As far as I know, and you can correct me on this, America is not at war. Armed soldiers from another country are not throwing bombs and missiles around American towns and cities. They're not walking up American streets shooting at people. Yes, "I get the "there but for the grace of God go I" reference. But, America is supposed to be a first world country, one of the richest and you can't be bothered to look after the vunerable and the poor because of prejudices and baseless fears. A land that values the right to have a gun over the lives of it's children. A land that cares not about the health of the people, but cares for and loves wealth. Do I have to say more?

[@sentatsantilis2591]

This is beyond heartbreaking. My heart is sobbing for these precious children & their caretakers. I’m so very deeply sorry what you’re all going through. I wish the DRI mentioned how we can help or you gave some hope that they were going to be moved & cared for in a more safe, attentive environment, tho the people looking after them are doing as best as they’re able given the situation. I’m praying ever so fervently for you all. May peace be with you & quickly. 🙏🏼🕊💜🇺🇦

[@traceyrudge6812]

Utterly heartbreaking

[@VeronicaReveles408]

So heartbreaking. 💔

[@Amped4Life]

As an amputee who is eager to make a career change and go into helping those with disabilities (as I'd rather do that than help make the rich richer) it breaks my heart that there is only 1.1k views and 799 comments on this video. What can I do to help these kids?

[@hamsterpouches]

Following!

[@motherhoodsbeauty9279]

You can afford to do that but not everybody can.

[@TheDucatiPilot]

This is one of the saddest things I've seen in a while. What is Putin's problem? He needs to man up and stop being an embarrassment to the human race.

[@narrativequestion]

putin did not desert these children you utter fool. keep with your silly ukraine flags and media direction.

[@coolcat6103]

But the Ukrainians left them! Nothing to do with putin

[@macherie5218]

Ukrainian people left them, not Putin. Zelenskiy gets billions of dollars, people from all over the world are donating money and why he is not able to give his own people any support? In Facebook group a Ukrainian woman was asking some donation for fuel so local people can be able to drive cars. To the question why are you asking money from people who lives in Sweden (it was group for emigrants in Sweden) when your president gets so much money, she answer unfortunately local people do not have any support from government.

[@coolcat6103]

@@macherie5218 they found zelenski is now worth £810 million, found in off shore account, the Ukrainian people also have money atms work all over the world! Seems like a massive wealth transfer to me, time for a reset with the east in control! They will hide underground bomb us all then re emerge to build back better

[@blackmantis3130]

Putin abandoned the children? 😂😂

[@JeffreyDeCristofaro]

This is TRAGIC!!! Somebody SEND A UNIT OVER THERE AND EVACUATE THEM OUT OF THE WAR ZONE!!!

[@illiniwood]

They won't even do that for the poor and elderly. The U.S. will send 80 billion worth of bombs day and night, but not ways to evacuate anyone to safety.

[@queensmith8265]

Tied to beds and left to flee 💔 Heartbreaking

[@hibiscus752]

Poor children. They help the most.

[@robertrichardson9923]

These kids are serving on the front line now as cannon fodder. No lie. You wont find the videos here but they exist.

[@christinawolfgang9657]

I would adopt one of them!! This is so heartbreaking. My sister is handicap and is God's precious gift to everyone. These children are a blessing not a burden

[@knowneys1977]

This situation, of dumping mentally and physically handicapped children in these types of institutions in Eastern Bloc countries has been documented and recognised officially for decades. LONG before the current situation with Russia. Don’t make excuses about your appalling treatment of your own citizens and attempt to blame others now that the world is looking at you. Shame on you, this is disgusting.

[@naomic8825]

Best comment I’ve read so far. Very true and heartbreaking.

[@joecampos5624]

I'm only glad to see some people are doing the best they can...god bless them

[@sofiyachernovol2165]

This such a heartbreak, and all the prayers and support goes to them 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@renarich4942]

Where are their parents btw

[@damariszuckschwert9489]

I watch this tutoring of disabled children in Ukraine for years before the war..,this its been happening for years.,blaming the war for this is not true. Ukraine never taked care of them

[@malibu64]

People in the USA cry and lobby over the “rights” of puppies and kittens, we NEED a revolution and a new era of HUMAN RIGHTS ACTIVISM FIRST! Human suffering should be our supreme cause and priority.

[@tishreni5183]

There's nothing wrong with being an animal rights activist,especially when you see how cruel human beings are.These kids families abandoned them to orphanages and took off to Poland.Abortion would have been a better option if these women knew of prior mental health conditions or genetic disorders. Autism can't be predicted(unless one parent has it),so not much can be done about that.

[@celestebarreda3380]

I just have no words this poor children 😔

[@tishreni5183]

In a disaster in hospitals we were taught to save the people that were able to be saved.It sounds cruel but it's an unfortunate reality in high stressful times such as war.The children with parents were probably taken to Poland,but the abandoned ones were left behind.

[@goingslowlynowhere]

Yup. Triage, but on a different level than most are used to think of.

[@GamingGaldiatrix]

All my Pro lifers ready to adopt?

[@mountainbirder9872]

Elon Mush should pay for it. He could pay in cash. Would be like pennies to him.

[@willlindsay6753]

He has 6 children he’s raising I think he’s doing he’s share.

[@mountainbirder9872]

@@willlindsay6753 he has 9 offspring. He could try giving a f$ck about the world, but doesn't.

[@blackmantis3130]

Why should he?

[@uyoebyik]

What's this got to do with Elon Musk????

[@tatianaallen7001]

That’s why in’s very important to identity a kid like that and have an abortion, bring them to suffer like this? Things can happen after birth but have an option is important.

[@qwertz666]

Some disabilities can develop later after birth such as Autism. Some kids can have disabilities from other things than developing in womb.

[@rumble108]

This breaks my heart

[@susanchisena3189]

This is horrific even before the war😡