Who can make an appointment with the Ombuds?
Bridgewater faculty and librarians can make an appointment with the Ombuds.
How confidential is “confidential”?
The Ombuds is committed to maintaining the confidentiality of everyone who requests services and will not disclose your identity or any part of your communication with anyone. Meeting with the Ombuds does not prompt any further action (unless the Ombuds determines that an imminent threat of serious harm exists).
In accordance with the International Ombuds Association, the privilege of confidentiality belongs to the office and not to the users of the office. The Ombuds’ confidentiality cannot be “waived” by users of the office, or by Bridgewater.
Because confidentiality is so important to the office, all communications are made with the understanding that they are off-the-record. Further, it is understood that users of the Ombuds agree that the Ombuds will not be asked to reveal the identity of visitors, any confidential communications, or be asked or required to participate in any formal or legal proceeding. Also, the Ombuds will never record a conversation for any reason. It is understood that users of the Ombuds services also will not record conversations.
If the Ombuds takes notes during conversations, those notes are retained only until the matter is resolved as determined by the Ombuds and then case notes are shredded.
If you have questions or concerns about any of the four Ombuds guiding principles (independence, confidentiality, informality, impartiality) please be sure to raise the issue when you meet with the Ombuds.
What does Ombuds “independence” mean?
Because the Ombuds office is independent in structure and function to the highest degree possible, the Ombuds is not influenced by internal or external forces. You can feel free to express your concerns without fear that something will happen to you or prompt an action because of talking with the Ombuds (unless the Ombuds determines that an imminent threat of serious harm exists).
If you have questions or concerns about any of the four Ombuds guiding principles (independence, confidentiality, informality, impartiality) please be sure to raise the issue when you meet with the Ombuds.
Do I need to know what I want before I contact the Ombuds?
Not necessarily. People often make an appointment to increase understanding, gain focus, and get clarity. Sometimes people are clear on their situation and want to talk through options and next steps. As a trusted navigator, the Ombuds focuses on listening, clarity and understanding.
When is a good time to contact the Ombuds?
Anytime is a good time to reach out to the Ombuds — when an initial curiosity arises, at the beginning of a problem, in the middle of navigating a concern or conflict, when all options seem to have been exhausted, or before a decision is made that cannot be changed.
What kind of information does the Ombuds keep?
Ombuds hold all communication in strict confidence and don’t maintain emails, case files or records with identifiable information.
The Ombuds practices according to the International Ombudsman Association (IOA) Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice.