Get help with the Office of the Ombuds
Who we are and how we help:
We are a neutral, informal, and confidential resource for people experiencing challenges or concerns with the County of Santa Clara Social Services Agency (SSA).
We’re here to support you when you’re feeling stuck, frustrated, or unsure how to handle a situation or issue with SSA. We provide a safe and confidential space where you can share your issues or concerns, explore options to help resolve conflicts, decide on next steps, and bring system concerns to the attention of the organization.
Our team doesn’t take sides or make decisions for you—we’re here to guide you through your concerns and help improve communication and understanding.
Who we serve:
Anyone can contact us. We serve all individuals, families, SSA staff, community members, and other government agencies. As long as you have past or present involvement with SSA, we are here to help.
Our goals are to:
- Listen to your concerns and help you resolve them.
- Help you explore your options and figure out next steps.
- Improve communication and understanding between everyone involved with the issue.
- Coach you on handling conflict and difficult conversations.
- Resolve complaints in a fair and informal way.
- May mediate conflicts to strengthen relationships.
- Inform you about the resources and support systems available.
- Work to improve the system we’re a part of by addressing bigger issues.
What we do not do:
- Make decisions for you
- Act as your attorney or advocate
- Act as an office of legal notice
- Provide records
- Investigate issues or concerns
- *DEBS Ombuds may review benefits cases
- Participate in any legal and/or formal complaint process (e.g., disciplinary action, court processes). For more information, discuss with your Ombuds.
How to contact us
SSA has many programs and services. See the list below to know which Ombuds to contact.
DAAS Ombuds for Department of Aging and Adult Services, which includes:
- Adult Protective Services (APS)
- In Home Supportive Services (IHSS)
- Conservatorship
- Senior Nutrition Program
Contact:
[email protected]
(408) 993-4107
Brochure:
DEBS Ombuds for Department of Employment and Benefit Services (DEBS), which includes:
- Medi-Cal
- CalFresh Food
- General Assistance/CAPI
- CalWORKs
Contact:
[email protected]
(408) 755-7187
Flyer:
Juvenile Welfare Office of the Ombuds (JWOO) for Department of Family and Children Services, which includes:
- Child Protective Services (CPS)
- All program/services related to DFCS
VSO Ombuds for Veterans Services Office, which includes:
- Services for veterans, military personnel and their families
Contact:
[email protected]
(408) 993-4105