The Office of the Ombud operates according to the principles listed below, following to the IOA (International Ombudsman Association) Code of Ethics:

• Independence – The ombud is independent of UCT's authority structures and reports to the Chair of Council, but has access to the university's Senior Leadership Group (SLG) in order to share concerns about issues on campus.
   
• Informality – The Office of the Ombud provides additional help, but does not replace, the university's existing resources for conflict resolution.
   
• Impartiality – The Office of the Ombud considers the rights and interests of all those involved while making sure that a fair process takes place.
   
• Confidentiality – The Office of the Ombud will not identify visitors without getting permission to do so. Permanent records are not kept. Reports are based on anonymous aggregate data.

Nondisclosure agreement:

• By talking to the ombud, visitors and the ombud agree that the Office of the Ombud will not disclose or keep records that could identify individuals.
• The ombud will not testify or participate in any formal proceeding: communications with the ombud are privileged, and this privilege is held by the Office of the Ombud and cannot be waived by others.
• This agreement is confidential and provides of a safe and neutral place for the discussion of any concern by any member of the UCT community.