Services
An Ombuds...
- Listens
- Respects your concerns and is non-judgmental
- Provides a "safe" place to talk - everything is strictly confidential, to the extent provided by law
- Answers questions or helps you find someone who can
- Helps you analyze your situation, and identify and evaluate options
- Remains impartial to all individuals
- Facilitates communication between individuals or groups
- Helps you develop options for resolving problems or conflicts in the workplace
- Prevents negative conflict through early intervention
- Provides important feedback to management by reporting issues and trends without disclosing identities
An Ombuds Can Also...
- Provide users with problem-solving skills
- Coach individuals on communication skills for self-esteem and confidence
- Speak to your group or department about ombudsing and early problem resolution
An Ombuds Does Not...
- Take sides
- Breach confidentiality
- Conduct formal investigations
- Make or change policy
- Take action without your permission
- Act as a witness or later testify in a formal grievance or legal proceeding
- Keep identifying records nor assume a custodial role for formal documentation
- Due to the confidential, informal, and neutral function of the Ombuds, communication with an Ombuds does not constitute notice to the University
Do Not Call An Ombuds If...
- You want legal advice
- You want someone to advocate for you
- You are in a formal grievance or termination process, litigation, or represented by an attorney
- Confidentiality cannot be promised in matters relating to serious misconduct or a crime, or if there is imminent risk of serious harm
