Our Mission
The Office of the University Ombudsperson is dedicated to being a collaborative resource for UAB and seeks to offer support to conflict management, resolution, and reduction.
Roles and Responsibilities of the Ombuds
| Roles & Responsibilities | Formal Channels | Ombuds |
|---|---|---|
| Designated as a neutral | ||
| Configured as independent, out of ordinary management structures | ||
| Operates as informal entity reporting to top of organization | ||
| Makes management decisions; sets and enforces policies, practice, and rules | ||
| Provides a channel to place the organization on notice of claims against it | ||
| Maintains business records for the organization | ||
| Provides internal and external compliance reports for the organization | ||
| Accepts anonymous calls; provides anonymity | Limited | |
| Acts as a proactive change catalyst to help prevent problems | ||
| Provides data from a neutral viewpoint to top management | Limited | |
| Provides a channel to seek confidential guidance based on terms and conditions of the ombuds program and, where appropriate, on assertion of privilege | ||
| Provides off-the-record coaching for options to resolve problems and guidance to get information to the most appropriate channel in a timely manner | ||
| Allows users to maintain control and determine resolution options (except for situations with an imminent risk of serious harm or information of abuse and neglect) | ||
| Provides guidance and options for all types of work related issues |