Parents of disabled children fear that the government’s reforms to special needs education in England could mean they lose vital support, according to a new survey that highlights the high stakes facing ministers. At the heart of the reforms will be how schools and local authorities fund and provide support for children with additional needs. James Watson-O’Neill, the chief executive of Sense, said: “A shocking number of children are being failed by a baffling and underfunded Send system. “So it’s little surprise that parents feel deep anxiety and distrust about the upcoming education reforms. That would allow more children with special needs to attend local schools rather than compete for scarce and more expensive special school places.