State of Connecticut Executive Branch

In the Department of Developmental Services this class is accountable for directing a comprehensive program to receive complaints affecting individuals receiving or eligible to receive supports and services from the department and to make recommendations to the Commissioner for resolving those issues or concerns.

Serves as a liaison through establishment of an independent office to department on behalf of individuals with intellectual disability and their families concerning complaints or problems regarding access to services or equity in treatment; formulates program goals and objectives for Ombudsperson Office consistent with performance objectives established by Commissioner in consultation with Council on Developmental Services; establishes and maintains relationships with department staff and others in order to facilitate resolution of complaints or concerns of individuals or their families; directs complaints to appropriate administrative unit and follows up on unresolved issues when no formal dispute resolution procedure exists; disseminates information regarding rights and methods of dispute resolution to individuals and/or their families; provides council with monthly updates concerning nature and status of concerns or complaints received, actions taken and outcomes achieved; maintains log of office activities; prepares an annual report to the Legislature and Council; makes recommendations to Commissioner based on outcomes of complaints or concerns; performs related duties as required.

Considerable knowledge of and ability to interpret and apply relevant state and federal laws, statutes and regulations; considerable knowledge of and ability to apply management principles and techniques; considerable knowledge of issues related to services and supports facing agency consumers and their families; considerable interpersonal skills; considerable oral and written communication skills; computer ability.

The Ombudsperson shall be an elector of the State with expertise and experience in the fields of developmental services and advocacy for the rights of individuals under the care and supervision of the Department of Developmental Services.

Appointed by the Governor with the approval of the General Assembly for a term of four years, not including any time served as acting ombudsperson, in accordance with the provisions of Connecticut General Statutes Section 17a-210a (b) and (c).