Hallmarks of Ombuds Practice
UNM’s
Ombuds Services for Staff adheres to the principles and standards of practice
established by the International Ombudsman Association.
Accordingly,
the University Ombuds staff serves as a confidential, neutral, informal and
independent resource for staff concerns and conflicts.
Confidential
Visitors identities and
the contents of their conversations remain confidential. Only with permission would Ombuds staff
contact other University members to help resolve a dispute. The limits of confidentiality are disclosed
at initial appointments.
Impartial
Ombuds
staff maintain
no personal stake in the outcome of any dispute. The Ombuds office promotes fair
rocess
and does not take sides or advocate for individuals.
Informal
The
use of the Ombuds services is voluntary.
The focus is on alternative methods to resolving problems rather than by
formal institutional procedures. Ombuds staff do not testify in formal hearings. The office has no decision-making authority
and maintains no official records.
Independent
Ombuds
staff exercise autonomy regarding their responsibilities.