Neutrality
The Ombuds Office is neutral and impartial. We strive to treat people in a fair, objective, and impartial manner. Rather than advocating on behalf of particular individuals, the Ombuds advocates for a fair, equitable process for all parties.
In practical terms, this means that the Ombuds has no stake or personal ownership in the outcome of a conflict. The Ombuds gives each party an equal opportunity to express viewpoints and relate the facts.
The only circumstance where the Ombuds may move away from a neutral position is when all of the information points to an injustice, inequity, or serious error. In such a case, the Ombuds becomes an advocate for resolution and fairness. Even then, the Ombuds does not side with a particular party, but with the ideals of fairness and the goal of helping the parties achieve an equitable resolution.