The Ombuds Office for SOS Children’s Villages is an independent entity established to support children and young people in situations that have not been successfully resolved through standard safeguarding processes. Operating as a critical check and balance, the Ombuds Office ensures that the voices of the youth are heard and their rights are protected within all SOS CV programs and services.
The Role and Principles: The National Ombuds serves as a designated neutral professional, operating independently from SOS Children’s Villages Somaliland and reporting directly to the Regional Ombuds. The role is built upon four core pillars: Confidentiality, Impartiality, Independence, and Informality.
Key Responsibilities:
Conflict Resolution: Utilize mediation and dispute resolution skills to find local solutions to concerns raised by children and young people.
Awareness & Prevention: Build awareness of child rights and nurture active child participation to ensure a safe environment.
Listening & Support: Act as a person of trust, providing a fair process through active listening and professional guidance.
Strategic Reporting: Identify systemic trends and provide high-level recommendations to both the Somaliland Association and the General Secretariat (GSC).
Training: Develop and implement engaging workshops for staff and children’s representatives regarding safeguarding and the ombuds process.
