The University of Michigan Office of the Staff Ombuds abides by the International Ombuds Association Standards of Practice. We are:
Confidential
The Staff Ombuds holds all communications with those seeking assistance in strict confidence. We do not identify you or discuss your particular concerns with anyone unless you give us permission to do so. The only exception to this privilege of confidentiality is when there appears to be imminent risk of serious harm.
Independent
The Staff Ombuds is independent in structure, function and appearance to the highest degree possible within the university. The Ombuds Office reports directly to the Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, but only for administrative and budgetary matters and trends affecting the university and Michigan Medicine climate. It does not report on the substance of individual cases or concerns.
Impartial
The Staff Ombuds, as a designated neutral, remains unaligned and impartial at all times and does not engage in any situation which could create a conflict of interest. The ombudsperson does not take sides in a conflict or dispute, nor does it favor one person over another, and they do not have the authority to order anyone to do or not do anything or to discipline or reward anyone.
Informal
The Staff Ombuds Office assists individuals in resolving conflicts at informal levels. While we may refer individuals to formal grievance resources, our office does not participate in any internal or external investigations or adjudicative procedures.
