TIPS
FOR
OMBUDSMAN PRACTICE
Help stimulate and support the development of resident councils in facilities without councils. Where a resident council exists, strengthen the functioning of the council if appropriate. Provide information and education on a variety of topics at the request of the council. Meet with the council regarding problems within the facility. Encourage attendance by: Talking it up. Some residents do not routinely go to council meetings for many different reasons. As you visit, ask residents if they attend the council meeting. Encourage them to use the council as a way to bring forward concerns. If they are reluctant to do so, find out why. Once you know what the barriers are, you can work with the president to make a plan for overcoming them. Attending the resident council meeting yourself. After suggesting to residents that this can be a means to solve problems, let them know that you will attend with them. Many residents will welcome this support. Attend only if invited. Coming early. Arrive at the facility at least a half-hour before the meeting begins. Visit with residents who have told you that they would like to attend. They may initially need this kind of reminder. In some facilities, you may find that staff has not helped them get ready, and your presence is the prompt that is needed. Suggesting that residents put it in writing. Some residents will feel more comfortable bringing concerns forward if they have listed their concerns in writing before the meeting. Then at the meeting, they can choose to voice their concerns or read from their list. Remember that the council is the residents’ group and should meet their needs, not be shaped to serve the ombudsman’s needs.