What will happen if I consult the Ombuds Office?
The Ombudsperson will listen to you describe your concern or issue. You may be asked to clarify some points and identify the kind of outcome you seek. The Ombudsperson may then: Determine that the Ombuds Office is not the best place for your issue, and refer you to the appropriate department or process Identify relevant university […]
Who can use the Ombuds Office?
The Office of the Ombudsperson for Students has been established to ensure that students are treated fairly and can learn, work and live in a fair, equitable and respectful environment. Any student who is currently enrolled at UBC Vancouver in a credit or non-credit course can seek the Office’s assistance. Prospective students, as well as former […]
What does the Ombuds Office do?
The Ombuds Office is an impartial and confidential resource for students to obtain assistance when they feel they have been treated unfairly in the university setting. The Office can: Provide general resource information and make appropriate referrals Identify and explain relevant university processes and policies Work with students to plan strategies and explore options on how […]
Are there things the Ombuds Office cannot help me with?
The Ombuds Office cannot: Be anyone’s advocate; the Ombudsperson must remain impartial as an advocate for fairness. Act as a student’s agent or replace existing resources or channels for resolution. Intervene where a formal process (e.g. appeal, grievance, legal proceeding) has been commenced or overturn or influence decisions resulting from such processes. Provide counselling or […]
What does confidentiality mean?
The information you provide and the discussions you have with the Ombuds Office are confidential, meaning that they will not be revealed to any person outside the Office unless you expressly give your permission. This guarantee of confidentiality is necessary to ensure a safe and secure environment for students to explore options, ask questions and […]
What does independence and impartiality mean?
The Ombuds Office operates independently of all other administrative structures within the university. The Office is jointly funded by the AMS, GSS and the university and the Ombudsperson reports directly to the President. Please see the UBC Office of the Ombudsperson for Students Terms of Reference 2011. The Office provides its services in an objective […]
What if I have a suggestion, comment or complaint about the Ombuds Office?
The Ombuds Office welcomes and appreciates feedback on our services – please email us your comments. The Ombuds Advisory Committee is responsible for receiving and responding to any comments or complaints you may have about the Ombuds Office. You can email your suggestions, complaint or comments to the Chair of the Ombuds Advisory Committee. The Chair will review your submission, […]
Does the Ombuds Office give legal advice?
No. The Ombuds Office does not provide legal advice, counselling services nor can it be an advocate for an individual student. It can however refer you to the appropriate agency for such services.
Can’t the Ombuds Office just “fix” my problems?
The Ombuds Office’s role is to help students work through their fairness-related concerns, not to act in their place. We work to empower students so that they can develop useful skills that will serve them now and in the future.
Is the UBC Ombuds Office the same as the AMS Ombuds Office?
No. The AMS Ombuds Office is a completely separate service offered by the Alma Mater Society (the student union). It assists students and AMS staff by providing conflict resolution services for AMS matters.
