Most commanders agree that an effective mediator can be an invaluable asset. Mediators play a key role in linking orders and families to ensure accurate and timely communication. Regularly disseminate current and critical information via newsletters, newsletters, newsletters, phone trees and emails. The mediators serve as a primary communication link between the families and the command and channel of official information of the command to the families. Providing information and remittances to military and civilian support organizations such as Fleet and Family Support Centres, the American Red Cross, the Navy and Marine Corps Relief Society, the chaplain, medical facilities and legal advisory offices. These organizations are valuable resources to help members of the command family. The role of the Commando Ombudsman The Ombudsman of the Naval Family is essential for the well-being of the families of the command and, in this unique role, as an officially appointed volunteer, the tasks are numerous. The mediator has been trained to know when to provide information, when to be a source of recommendation and how receptive he or she is to family members when they call. Assist family members seeking professional help and use them to advise them.

Mediators are not, in their official function, advisers or social workers. Acting as a lawyer for command families, using knowledge of the system, can help access the appropriate level of the chain of command for intervention and convey appropriate requests or complaints during the exercise of confidentiality. Navy Ombudsman Basic Training This training consists of 9 modules that help official commanders and commanders work effectively with their orders. The workshops provide resources to help families through crises and daily life. Open to ombuds, COs, XOs, chaplains, CMCs, COBs and their spouses. The FFSC provides training, advice and support to command-appointed mediators: support for command-sponsored groups and activities and publicity for support group activities, as permitted by the order. Marine Ombudsman Advanced Training This training provides advice, additional resources and expert training on a variety of topics to help address the multiple challenges of orders and family members. New and experienced mediators are encouraged to participate.