The Mediation Process begins with an appointment and has simple steps, as follows, to help guide individuals or groups through an issue or conflict. The Office provides an outcome that may be optimal for the individual/s involved, because the Ombudsperson and Ombuds staff utilize these standards of practice:
- Independent
- Confidential
- Impartial
- Informal
The process:
- Inquire about scheduling a confidential appointment with the Ombudsperson and/or Ombuds Assistant via phone or via office visit to discuss an issue of concern.
- Schedule an initial individual meeting that will allow for introductions, understanding of issue and explanation of the Ombudsperson's and Assistants' role as a Mediator.
- Schedule a joint meeting of two individuals expressing their perceptions of the issue and providing options with the guidance of both Ombudsperson and Ombuds Assistant.
- A final meeting that facilitates an agreement based on joint options optimal for both individuals/groups, if necessary.
