Attitude of the Vologda oblast population to the status of a disabled person

The article presents characteristics of the population’s attitude towards persons with disabilities and their problems on the basis of the results of sociological surveys conducted in 2013-2014 among the population of the Vologda Oblast. The study has revealed the presence of very large social distance between the Vologda Oblast population and the disabled. Also there are differences in attitudes among age groups. In 2014 the residents of the region began to experience less discomfort when communicating with people with disabilities. The main problems faced by the disabled in everyday life are the following: complexity of employment; limitations on removement, namely impracticality of residential buildings, public places and, in general, the urban environment; indifference and lack of understanding from the society.The article discloses that the RF government is paying greater attention to public policy in the field of social protection of persons with disabilities; however, almost half of the population knows nothing about the long-term target program “A barrier free environment”. It is likely a reason for the respondents’ radical opinions about the state social policy.According to the population, the media does not pay much attention to persons with disabilities. It is one of the most important resources for social integration of persons with disabilities; it can help them and the entire population increase legal literacy and awareness about the programs implemented in the region.