Ombudsman?

Everyone has parents and grandparents, which means that everyone will most likely have to deal with a long-term care facility at some point in their life. That is what the American Red Cross’ Ombudsman Program is for. 

An Ombudsman is a dedicated volunteer certified to receive, investigate, and solve complaints made by, or on behalf of, residents in long-term care facilities.  They are assigned to a facility each week, where they go to discuss problems, concerns, or to simply lend an ear when residents have something on their minds.  The Ombudsmen also monitor the quality of care, help protect residents rights, provide information to the residents and their families to ensure proper treatment, and encourage residents to express their opinions.

Interested in becoming an Ombudsman?

You must:

Be at least 21 years of age
Be interested and capable to fulfill the advocate’s role
Have strong verbal and written communication skills

Regularly scheduled training is provided.  The next scheduled training program, a total of 36 hours, will be held on March 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, and 16. Prospective Ombudsmen must successfully complete the full 36 hours of training.

For more information about becoming an Ombudsman, please contact (716) 878-2385.