The IRCM is the only independent and authorised Ombudsman for the Coaching and Mentoring Industry.

The role of the Ombudsman was first created in Sweden more than 200 years ago and was designed to provide protection for the consumer where there was a substantial imbalance of power between the consumer and that state.  Today Ombudsman have been extended to include other private and independent sectors.

The IRCM provides each consumer (client, student, member of a Professional Body) with an independent authority to address disputes and complaints in line with current consumer policy.  The first step in the IRCM’s Ombudsman procedure is one of facilitation.  Where a resolution cannot be found in facilitation, the consumer has the right to raise a formal complaint.

Ombudsman have the power to make decisions which are binding on the Professional Bodies, Training Organisations, Coaches, and Mentors in their jurisdiction unless the dispute/challenge is successfully challenged through the courts.

What can the IRCM, as the Coaching and Mentoring Industry Ombudsman, do you for?

  • The Ombudsman service is free of charge.
    For this reason, this service is accessible to all consumers who cannot afford to pursue their disputes or complaints through the courts.
  • The Ombudsman is committed to both achieving redress for the consumer, as well as working with the Professional Bodies and Training Organisations to identify systemic failings.
  • A single investigation may be incorporated into multiple disputes/complaints about the same topic.
    This avoids duplication and excessive cost, as well identifying systemic failings.
  • The dispute/complaint will be progressed where it is not already the subject of court proceedings.
  • Ombudsman are neutral and independent arbiters and are not advocates nor consumer champions.
  • The Ombudsman recommends that the consumer raises their dispute/complaint with the relevant Coach, Mentor, Training Organisation, Professional Body or Commercial Organisation.
  • The first step of any dispute or complaint is to facilitate a resolution, by working with the consumer and the individual/organisation, without resorting to a formal investigation.
  • Where a resolution is not found through facilitation, the consumer may progress to formal complaint where a formal investigation will be undertaken.
  • Where the Ombudsman identifies an injustice, working with all relevant parties/bodies, they seek to put this right.

click here to access the Ombudsman Service