The independent regulator of health and social care in England, whether provided by the NHS, local authorities, private companies or voluntary organisations. It has set legally enforceable standards for care, reviews NHS complaints which have not been settled internally, and handles complaints about the other sectors. It also investigates major or systemic failures or scandals, and protects the rights of people detained under the Mental Health Act. Similar bodies operate in the devolved countries of the UK (see www.cqc.org.uk).