By George King
Claire Smith, chair of the forum, said the responses were “upsetting”, with 142 participants – about 56% – saying their mental health had declined.
“That’s a lot of people who are struggling, but a lot of things in the Send world seem to be a fight, and that really takes a lot out of a parent or carer,” she told the BBC.
“When you are giving that level of care, it is very easy to self-neglect because you’re putting all your energy into the person you are caring for.”
Elsewhere in the survey 71 parents said they felt their children’s needs were being met, while 75 said they were not.
They were also asked if they had seen any improvement in the education services their child accesses – 106 said no and 62 said they felt there had been a decline, but 76 said there had been an improvement.
Before the survey was conducted, Sarah-Jane Smedmor was named the new executive director for children and young people services at the council.
The appointment followed a report in early 2024 which was highly critical of the authority’s special educational needs and disabilities services.
“There have been big changes and the right people are in post now,” added Mrs Smith.
“But unfortunately those improvements are not being felt by families. We need that to happen really soon and see the benefits of those changes.”
A spokesperson from the Local Area Send Partnership said: “We are working hard to ensure that all children and young people with additional needs receive the best and most timely support. This includes working with families to ensure they are kept informed.
“This support is provided by a range of agencies including health colleagues, schools and Suffolk County Council.”
Suffolk County Council has been contacted for comment.
If you have been affected by this story or would like support then you can find organisations which offer help and information at the BBC Action Line.”