We assist the UCSB community with the informal resolution of any University-related complaint or conflict.  In doing so, we adhere to the standards of practice for ombuds as described by the International Ombudsman Association (IOA).  These four standards are essential to the ombuds profession and guide our work:

Confidentiality

• Holds all identities and communications with those seeking assistance in confidence
• Only exception to this confidentiality is when the Office determines that an imminent threat of serious harm exists; this determination will be made at the sole discretion of the Office
• Does not keep records other than aggregate statistical summaries

Impartiality

• Works to promote fair and equitable processes
• Does not advocate for any party or for the University in a dispute

Informality

• Facilitates communication and provides opportunities for informal dispute resolution
• Does not participate in any formal processes
• Does not makes decisions or issue judgments
• Not an office of notice to the University about the existence of a problem

Independence

• Reports to the Executive Vice Chancellor for administrative and budgetary purposes only           

These principles are absolute, non-negotiable, and belong to the Office of the Ombuds rather than the user of the Office.  Anyone who uses our services cannot request us to breach any of these standards of practice.