New powers for the local government ombudsman (LGO) to take on complaints involving social care have come into effect. From October 2010, adults who fund their own social care will have access to an independent complaints review service, following Royal Assent being granted on 12 November to the Health Act 2009. The LGO will be able to review complaints about privately purchased care services made by users, their family or others, and puts private firms on the same footing as councils.