The Local Government Ombudsman

The Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman (LGSCO) investigates complaints about councils and adult social care services in England. This includes care that is: 

Arranged directly with a care provider, either by: 

• Individuals who pay for their own care privately (self-funded) 
• Individuals using money provided by a local council (e.g. through Direct Payments or personal budgets) 

Provided or commissioned by a local council, such as: 

• Residential care (care homes) 
• Home care services 
• Day centres and other support services 

In most cases they will only consider a complaint once the council or care provider has been given a reasonable opportunity to deal with the situation. Have a look at our section on Complaints and feedback to your council for more information.

The LGSCO provides a free service. Their job is to investigate complaints in a fair and independent way. They do not take sides and do not champion complaints.
You can find more information regarding the LGSCO on their website.