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​The Orpe Human Rights Advocates Office of the Ombudsperson (OOM) is a safe place to start when you need to talk over a work-related issue. The role of the Ombudsperson is to mediate in conflicts of any nature related to employment in OHRA, inter alia, matters pertaining to conditions of employment, administration of benefits, managerial practices, as well as professional and staff relations. The Ombudsperson will answer your questions, help you work out your options, refer you to other services if necessary, and help you resolve your concerns. The Office of the Ombudsperson operates in accordance with the following Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics of the International Ombudsperson Association: ​

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Independence

The Ombudsperson is independent in structure, function, and appearance to the highest degree possible within the organization.

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Neutrality and Impartiality

The Ombudsperson, as a designated neutral entity, remains unaligned and impartial. The Ombudsperson does not engage in any situation which could create a conflict of interest.

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Confidentiality

The Ombudsperson holds all communications with those seeking assistance in strict confidence, and does not disclose confidential communications unless given permission to do so. The only exception to this privilege of confidentiality is when there appears to be imminent risk of serious harm.

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Informality

The Ombudsperson, as an informal resource, does not participate in any formal adjudicative or administrative procedure related to concerns brought to his/her attention.

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By deciding to speak to the Ombudsperson, it is understood that these principles will be applied:

• The Ombudsperson does not disclose confidential information;

• The Ombudsperson will not participate in or testify in any formal proceeding, even if asked to; and,

• Talking with the Ombudsperson does not mean that you are notifying the Organization about your concerns, unless you voluntarily wish to do so.

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While maintaining impartiality, integrity and confidentiality, the Ombudsperson consults regularly with the Staff Association, Human Resources Management and the Office of the Director General in a manner that is independent of ordinary lines and staff structures, thus promoting justice and good administration for the benefit of all staff. The Ombudsperson embodies the commitment of the Organization to protecting its staff members from unfair administrative actions, harassment, discrimination and retaliation. As such, it is an effective resource in preventing issues from escalating.

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For more information, please 

 

Bill Toms
OHRA Ombudsperson
Email : ombudsperson@orpe.org