Protecting our Relationship

The Ombudsman Office was created to be an alternative channel of communication that people can use on a purely voluntary and informal basis. As a member of the American Red Cross community, you acknowledge that –

• As the Ombudsman Office functions in accordance with the core values of "Confidentiality, Neutrality, Informality, and Independence," communications with the Ombudsman and staff are confidential and privileged; this privilege is held by the Ombudsman Office and cannot be waived by others; the Ombudsman and staff will not testify or participate in any formal proceeding.
• The Ombudsman Office will not voluntarily disclose to anyone outside the Ombudsman Office any information the person provides or the person’s identity unless necessary to address an imminent risk of serious harm or with our mutual agreement.
• The Ombudsman Office will not keep permanent records that contain individually identifiable information.
• Communications with the Ombudsman Office will not constitute notice of claims against the American Red Cross. Failing to formally notify the American Red Cross of allegedly inappropriate or wrongful behavior or conduct may affect your rights.