University of California Ombuds Update Systemwide Statement of Best Practices

The University of California Ombuds Offices have released a revised Declaration of Best Practices, replacing the prior version adopted in 2017. The updated guidance applies to Ombuds Offices at all UC campuses and the UC Office of the President. While reaffirming the core principles of independence, confidentiality, impartiality, and informality, the revision adds extensive guidance on Ombuds office structure, reporting relationships, staffing, selection of Ombuds, and conflicts of interest. The document also updates terminology to align with current IOA standards, replacing references to “neutrality” with “impartiality” and reflecting the association's current name. 

Among the notable additions, the revised declaration states that Ombuds should be salaried career employees selected through an open process, discourages lengthy interim or contractual appointments, and cautions against assigning existing university staff from outside an Ombuds Office to temporary Ombuds roles because of potential confidentiality and independence concerns. The revision also expands discussion of internal and external conflicts of interest, extends protections against retaliation to Ombuds staff, and adds a limited exception allowing disclosure of confidential information when necessary to defend against allegations of professional misconduct or malpractice. (UC Ombuds Best Practices via UC Davis.) 

Related posts: University of California Ombuds Update Statement of Best Practices; Ombuds to Highlight University of California Management Conference; University of California Protects All its Ombuds Under Updated Sexual Misconduct Policy; University of California President Endorses Ombuds Offices; University of California Report on Protest Policies Reaffirms Role of Ombuds.