Welcome to the UT Martin Office of Ombuds Services
The Ombuds provides a confidential place for UT Martin faculty and staff to talk through concerns, consider options, and plan next steps. The UT Martin Ombuds follows the International Ombuds Association’s fundamental principles of independence, impartiality, informality, and confidentiality. Click here to read the UT Martin Office of the Ombuds Charter.
What is an Ombuds?
Organizational ombuds work with individuals and groups in an organization to:
- Provide a safe and confidential space to talk about issues or concerns, big and small
- Explore options to help resolve conflicts
- Bring systemic concerns to the attention of the organization
The UTM Ombuds follows the International Ombuds Association’s Standard of Practice and Code of Ethics, based on the four pillars of:
Independent
The Ombuds operates independently in purpose, structure, and decision making, and avoids roles or duties that could compromise independence.
Impartial
The Ombuds is a neutral and unbiased resource, has no personal stake in outcomes, avoids conflicts of interest, and promotes fair process for everyone involved.
Informal
The Ombuds is an off-the-record resource. The office does not make decisions, conduct investigations, replace formal processes, and is not a place to give notice to the university.
Confidential
Conversations and identities are kept confidential to the maximum extent permitted by law. Disclosure happens only with permission or when the Ombuds determines there is an imminent risk of serious harm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Ombuds confidential?
Yes. Conversations are confidential with narrow exceptions for imminent risk of serious harm.
Does contacting the Ombuds put the university on notice or start a formal process?
No. The Ombuds is informal and off the record. They can explain formal options if you choose.
Who can use the Ombuds?
UT Martin faculty and staff.
Does the Ombuds keep records?
No. The office is not a record keeper for the university.
Should I use email to discuss my situation?
No. Use email only to schedule. For sensitive matters, call or meet instead.
Does the Ombuds take sides?
No. The Ombuds is impartial and focuses on fair process and options.
Will the Ombuds investigate, make decisions, or testify?
No. An Ombuds does not investigate, decide outcomes, or participate in formal proceedings.
What happens in the first meeting?
You share your situation and goals. The Ombuds helps clarify options. You decide next steps.