What we do

Each Ombuds follows the four principles: confidentiality, impartiality,  independence and informality. They work independently of SOS Children’s Villages with the goal of finding a solution to the concern raised.

 

When an “inquirer” — a child, young person, adult, or group — contacts an Ombuds with a concern, the Ombuds will confidentially listen, assess immediate risks, discuss options and agree on next steps, and help the inquirer navigate the way forward.

 

Why is the Ombuds Office needed?

Following a review of child safeguarding across SOS Children’s Villages, and the recommendations of the Independent Special Commission, SOS Children’s Villages is committed to strengthening its child safeguarding systems across Member Associations (MAs), the General Secretariat (GSC), and the federation. This key priority includes a commitment to “establishing an ombudsperson system to represent the rights of children, young people and others affected by abuse.”

 

Roles and responsibilities