Program Directors
Jay Chalke
Ombudsperson, Province of British Columbia
Sophie Petrillo
Ombudsman, Hydro One
Eligible for
Certificate
The Essentials for Ombuds is a five-day intensive training collaboration between the Forum of Canadian Ombudsman and Osgoode Professional Development.
The authoritative course for today’s Ombuds and similar investigating and dispute resolution roles.
Now in its 13th iteration, this unique program, both comprehensive and in-depth, is intended to meet the needs of recent appointees to the Ombuds role or Office, as well as providing those with more experience an opportunity to become conversant with both the theory and practice of the Ombuds role, wherever it is located.
You will develop a deeper understanding of the requirements and expectations for Ombuds by exploring and examining the myriad of evolving issues and challenges facing those who practice in the Ombuds field today, and by reviewing best practices of Ombuds across the country.
What You’ll Learn
You will get practical tips and strategies on some of the key areas, including:
The initial handling of concerns and complaints
Effective early resolution techniques
Inquiries and investigations (gathering and assessing evidence, developing cooperative resolution techniques and preparing case summaries)
Trend analysis and own motion investigations
Choice of path – assessing the issues and possible paths
Dealing with human rights complaints against the Ombudsman and/or Ombudsman staff
Coping with difficult people: handling disrespect, anger or rage
Developing recommendations and appropriate remedies
Partner
Who Should Attend
Assistant/Deputy Ombuds, and Directors in Ombuds officers
Early Resolution Staff
Ombuds (working in legislated roles or in public and private sector organizations or associations established by policy, Charter, Order-in-Council, etc.)
Investigators/Senior Investigators in an Ombuds context
Legal or other specialized counsel to Ombuds Offices
Conflict Resolution Staff working in an Ombuds context
Dispute Resolution Officers
Fairness Commissioners/Fairness Practitioners
Integrity Commissioners
Citizens’ Representatives
Complaint-handling staff in both private and public sector organizations
Public Editors (at newspapers and other media outlets)
Faculty
Program Directors
Jay Chalke
Ombudsperson, Province of British Columbia
Sophie Petrillo
Ombudsman, Hydro One
Instructors
Elisabeth Wilson
Chief of Staff, Canadian Ombudsperson for Responsible Enterprise
“The whole program was very well organized and super pertinent to the issues, challenges (and opportunities) all ombuds offices face in one form or another. Excellent choice of speakers!”
Agenda
View the 2024 program brochure and agenda to see what you’ll learn from leading experts. A detailed agenda for the upcoming program will be available soon.
Register now
Dates coming soon. Learn more now.
Interested in the next program offering? Complete this form and we’ll email you once new dates are announced.
Printable Registration Form
If a downloadable form is required, please contact osgoodepd@osgoode.yorku.ca.
“Is financial assistance or funding available?”
As law evolves, we know how important it is to stay up to date. We also understand the financial implications of continuously upgrading your professional skills and knowledge. For more information on available options, including Job Grants, OSAP, please visit:
Certificate Requirements
To receive the Osgoode/FCO Certificate, you must attend all program days and successfully complete an online assessment within 30 days of the last module.
Mitch MacDonald
Program Review Analyst, Office of the Veterans Ombudsman
“All of the speakers were very knowledgeable and the organizers were on top of everything. I felt the days ran really smoothly. Bravo to everyone involved!”
CPD and Accreditation
Please Note
Final CPD accreditation has yet to be confirmed. The hours below are for the 2024 iteration of the program and should be used as an estimate only. Confirmed hours will be available soon.
OsgoodePD is an accredited provider with the LSO, the Law Society of BC and NY CLE Board. Select your location to view the eligible hours you may claim.
Substantive | 24h |
---|---|
Professionalism | 3h |
EDI | 1h |
Total | 28h |
Are you reporting hours from a previous date?
View our CPD & Accreditation page to see previously calculated hours for this course.
Deeper Learning Opportunities
LLMs
Are you a law graduate or an executive/senior professional with at least 5 years of specialized experience? Consider a full-time or part-time LLM degree.
Part-time LLMs Full-time LLMsSingle Course Enrollment
Do you have an LLB/JD? Consider taking a single LLM course for deeper learning in a specific area of practice – all credits will apply towards a Professional LLM.
Explore LLM coursesFrequently Asked Questions
Client and Technical Support
Have questions? Get advice in person, by email or over the phone.
Registration questions
Technical support