Are you having a problem getting the help you need? Sometimes figuring out who to contact is as frustrating as the issue itself!  Reaching out to an ombuds may resolve that problem!

Here at the University of Colorado, ombuds are highly trained individuals who assist students, faculty, and staff work through unique and complex issues. Ombuds are confidential (with the exception of risk of physical harm), neutral/impartial, informal, independent and voluntary. People visit with ombuds to;

  • Discuss concerns
  • Explore options
  • Brainstorm
  • Consider different perspectives
  • Reality check
  • Weigh the pros and cons
  • Navigate the system and its processes
  • Identify or clarify policies and procedures
  • Participate in facilitated conversations and informal mediations
  • Strategize how to escalate concerns (if appropriate)
  • Acquire the skills and tools to improve communication and interpersonal relationships.

Meeting with an ombuds is a safe and zero barrier, first step when contemplating if and how to address a concern or conflict.

But what if the ombuds is unable to help with a particular need such as obtaining legal advice or finding an advocate for issues outside of the university? When issues brought to the Ombuds Office is outside the scope of services provided and requires additional resources beyond the University of Colorado, the ombuds will do their best to refer you to the right place and help you navigate various available resources.

Here is a list of state and federal agencies that may be helpful:


LEGAL RESOURCES:

 

STATE LEADERS:

 

 COLORADO’S MEMBERS OF CONGRESS:

Senators

Representatives
Go to www.house.gov to look up your Representative by zip code.

 

OTHER RESOURCES:

By Melissa Connell, Ombuds Director, University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus