Ombudsman Program

Description
The Salt Lake County Aging Services Long Term Care Ombudsman Program is a voice for older adults in long-term care facilities such as nursing  homes and assisted living facilities. Residents of these facilities have specific rights regarding their care; an ombudsman is an advocate of these rights.

Program Coordinator
Laura Smith, Salt Lake County Aging Services, 2001 S State Street, Suite S1500, Salt Lake City, Utah 84190. Telephone (801) 468-2853. Fax (801) 468-2852. Email: lrsmith@slco.org

Volunteer Opportunities
Quality Issues Specialist (QIS) Ombudsman: Following a one day training and on -the- job shadowing, the QIS ombudsman volunteer will visit assigned long-term care facilities to observe the care residents are receiving, the overall cleanliness and repair of the facility, and visit with residents to get to know them. As QIS ombudsmen develop rapport with residents, the residents will be more likely to let them know if they are experiencing problems or concerns. Upon reporting complaints, problems, or concerns, a Certified Ombudsman can then go out and investigate and help resolve them.
Certified Ombudsman  After four to six months of acting in the capacity of a QIS ombudsman volunteer, you can then move up to a certified ombudsman position. There will be additional training required.
Clerical Support Volunteer  This volunteer will assist the Ombudsman program staff and volunteers with various clerical duties. Must be computer literate, organized, and be able to multi-task.
Ombudsman Educator  This volunteer will make educational presentations to residents, facility staff and the public regarding the Ombudsman program and residents rights. This volunteer may also participate as a trainer in the Certification training. The Educator is required to become certified.

Volunteer Requirements

• Minimum 21 years of age.
• No felony criminal record, mandatory background check is required
• Complete training appropriate to volunteer position
• Excellent communication and listening skills
• Valid Utah driver's license and care insurance
• One-year commitment
• Willing to abide by department dress code
• Ability to work with and respect a diverse population of people

Training and Support
Each volunteer position has training and support appropriate to the position description. The details of the training will be explained during initial interview with the volunteer coordinator.

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