OMBUDSMAN
The Navy Ombudsman Program was established on September 14, 1970 by Chief of Naval Operations, Admiral Elmo R. Zumwalt Jr. in response to his concern for the issues and needs of Navy families. Since its inception, the Ombudsman Program has continuously evolved to adapt to the changing needs of the Command and its families.
Ombudsmen are volunteers appointed by the Commanding Officer (CO) to serve as an information link between command leadership and command families. Ombudsmen are trained to disseminate information — official Department of the Navy and command information, command-climate issues and local community opportunities. They also provide resource referrals and are instrumental in resolving family issues before they require the command’s attention. At NNPTC, the Ombudsmen support the families of both staff members and students.
The Ombudsman is a vital resource in assisting the Command in discharging the Commanding Officer's responsibilities for the morale and welfare of the families in the Command. The Ombudsman Program belongs to the Command and is shaped largely by the CO's perception of the needs of his Command.
Ombudsmen abide by a Code of Ethics, which mandates all Ombudsmen to:
★Maintain confidentiality.
★ Support the command’s mission.
★Work within the chain of command as directed.
★ Maintain the highest standards of professionalism
The Ombudsman is also a mandatory reporter. The instruction that governs the Navy Family Ombudsman Program, the OPNAVINST 1750.1 series, requires ombudsman to report the following:
★ All suspected or known child abuse/neglect.
★ Alleged domestic abuse.
★ Suspected or potential homicides, violence or life-endangering situations.
★ All suspected or potential suicidal risks.
★ All alleged sexual assaults.
★ Other issues identified by the CO as reportable.
The Ombudsman may be directed by the CO to participate in any activity that promotes the welfare and morale of the families. These activities might include:
- A welcome program for families and single personnel reporting to the Command
- Representing the Command on committees, boards and groups concerned with the services and support of the families
- Serving as a source of emergency and crisis information.
- Participating in the indoctrination and orientation of new Command personnel/families
- Act as liaison between the CO and Command families keeping him/her informed of their general health, welfare, and morale
- Serve as a primary focal point to disseminate official information to the families of Sailors serving at the Command
The Ombudsman may be reached by phone, WhatsApp, or text message at (843) 252-5278 or (843) 471-9081
Email us at nnptcombudsman@gmail.com or follow us on Facebook at http://facebook.com/NNPTCOmbudsman