In a perfect world, we would always be understood, and our actions and comments would be inclusive and inoffensive. However, this is not the reality we face. Sometimes unintentional harm can be done and on occasion, adverse intentional action, by word or deed, taken. At the ASE we wish to adhere to our Ethics Statement in our daily operations and be respectful of individual perspectives as a means of promoting a collective organization. As a result, the Ombudsperson position was created to provide a channel to facilitate the reconciliation of issues that may arise in the course of organizational activities. Below is a brief review of how and when to engage with the Ombudsperson.
Complaint Process
The ASE functions in accordance with our stated Ethics Statement. As part of our commitment to ensure the that all our stakeholders are treated and aligned to the objectives of our Ethics Statement, the Ombudsperson role was formally established May 1, 2021. In this capacity, the acting Ombudsperson will address complaints submitted in a confidential manner that will be limited to the parties involved in the complaint, both the filer and individual(s) involved in the complaint, with the requirement that at least one party is a member of the ASE. The Ombudsperson process is informal meaning that it is non-binding and not equatable to formal channels such as, formal mediation or court proceedings.
The complaint process can be initiated in writing by emailing the ASE Ombudsperson (TBD in 2023). All complaints should include full name and contact details as well as details about the complaint. This should include any relevant documentation and the names of anyone who may have information about the matter. Upon receipt and within 48 hours, the complainant can expect to receive direct communication from the Ombudsperson.
The role of the Ombudsperson is to ensure complaints are addressed in an unbiased and objective manner. This is done by ensuring that both the complainant and the subject(s) of the complaint are given the opportunity to provide information and feedback concerning the complaint. The goal of the process will be to assist all parties involved in finding a resolution to the complaint. However, there may always be a situation where the outcome may not be acceptable to the parties involved. In such cases, the Ombudsperson may suggest alternate and or formal channels for pursuing dispute resolution.
The Ombudsperson functions in accordance with a Code of Ethics and within the parameters of Standards of Practice.
