Navy Family Ombudsman Program From Fleet and Family Service Center NAS Sigonella NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily - The Navy’s philosophy of developing healthy, self-reliant families is epitomized through the Navy Family Ombudsman Program. The ombudsman concept originated in Scandinavian countries where they investigated citizens’ complaints against the government or its functionaries. Today the concept is widely utilized in the fields of government, business, and healthcare. Admiral Elmo Zumwalt, Jr. created the Navy Family Ombudsman Program on September 14, 1970 by issuing Z Gram 24. Admiral Michael G. Mullen, CNO, reemphasized the importance of the program in 2007, signing an updated instruction and highlighting the requirement that all Navy families have access to a Navy Family Ombudsman. What is an Ombudsman? Ombudsman are volunteers, appointed by the commanding officer, to serve as an information link between command leadership and Navy families. They are trained to disseminate information both up and down the chain of command, including official Department of the Navy and command information, command climate issues, local quality of life improvement opportunities, and “good deals” around the community. They also provide resource referrals when needed, and are instrumental in resolving family issues before they require extensive command attention. The command ombudsman program is shaped by the commanding officers perceived needs of his/her command. The command ombudsman is appointed by and works under the guidance of the commanding officer who determines the priorities of the program, the roles and relationships of those involved in it, and the type and level of support it will receive. What does an Ombudsman do? • Ensures a responsive and accurate source of information between commands and families • Provides an effective, well-trained information and referral service • Provides, a proactive information and education resource via newsletters, telephone/email tress and briefings • Delivers a positive spokesperson and role model for family members • In conjunction with the Navy’s sponsor program can facilitate the smooth transition of Sailors and their families during PCS moves • Has proved to be invaluable during natural and man-made disasters • Serve as a critical link for families during mobilization or geographic separation The Navy Family Ombudsman Program enables service members to be more focused and productive at work because their families have a safety net. Since the Navy recruits Sailors, but retains families, families who are satisfied with the Navy lifestyle will more likely choose to stay Navy. The Ombudsman Program is here for you. If you need an Ombudsman please contact 624-4291 during duty hours and 335-580-1269 after hours. The Sigonella community will be recognizing the hard work and dedication of our local Ombudsman by having a luncheon on September 26, from 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Posted on: Fri, 26 Sep 2014 05:40:00 +0000
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