Ombudsman Programs

OMBUDSMAN TRAINING AND SUPPORT

Navy Family Ombudsmen are communication links, information and referral resources, and advocates for command family members. They are volunteers and spouses of service members within the command and appointed by the Commanding Officer.

As an official command representative, the Ombudsman is a point of contact for all family members connected to the command – including spouses, parents, and extended family members. Ombudsmen are highly skilled referral agents that will get the right information to their families.

The FFSC provides Ombudsman Basic Training (OBT) as well as support to Ombudsman and Senior Spouse Leadership.

OMBUDSMAN BASIC TRAINING (OBT)

Ombudsman Basic Training is a 9 module course designed and standardized by the Naval Personnel Command. Ombudsman Basic Training introduces new Ombudsmen to all aspects of the Navy Family Ombudsman Program, provides resources and information, and builds the skills necessary to be an effective Ombudsman.

Topics include the Ombudsman Code of Ethics, establishing effective working relationships, deployment, local resources, Ombudsman’s role in command emergencies and natural disasters, active listening skills, and much more. The FFSC offers Ombudsman Basic Training in evening and weekend sessions.

All newly appointed or prospective Ombudsmen, Command Leadership, and Command Leadership Spouses are invited to attend Ombudsman Basic Training.

(Classes are a total of 16 hours)

OMBUDSMAN ADVANCED TRAINING

This one-hour workshop is designed to inform Ombudsman and the Command Leadership Team about programs and services available to military families in the event of a crisis. Training is generally held after monthly Ombudsman Assemblies. (Class is 1 hour)