OYA staff understand that one of our greatest resources and assets is the support and assistance given by our community. This partnership between the citizens of Oregon and OYA is something that we must constantly strive to protect, and it is a responsibility shared by every member of the agency.
Your comments, both positive and negative, are useful in ensuring that we perform our mission as efficiently, effectively, and professionally as possible.
How to File a Complaint
OYA recognizes that complaints from the public, staff, partnering agencies or youth and family members, whether substantiated or not, increase the agency’s awareness of actual or potential problems, as well as the community’s perceptions and attitudes about the OYA’s practices and procedures.
If you wish to file a complaint about an OYA employee, we encourage you to submit it as soon after the incident as possible. Complaints go to the Professional Standards Office. Here are the ways you may file a complaint:
- OYA Reporting Line: 1-800-315-5440. This is a recorded message line. You will be asked to leave a detailed message regarding your complaint and your contact information (if you are not remaining anonymous). The reporting line is reviewed only on weekdays between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., and not on holidays. Call backs are usually made within 24 hours of the next business day. You may also call the PSO direct phone number: 503-378-5313.
- Online Complaint Form: The complaint form can be filled out online by any member of the public and submitted electronically to PSO. Please note: this is not a secure form.
- Email PSO: professionalstandards.office@oya.oregon.gov
Anonymous Complaints
The investigation of anonymous complaints can be difficult. However, PSO is committed to investigating anonymous reports as fully as possible based on the amount of information that is provided.
Status
People who file a complaint will be informed of the status of the complaint and its ultimate outcome.
Confidentiality
Your complaint will be kept as confidential as possible. Should the information received in your complaint result in criminal or administrative action, your complaint information may be released to the proper authorities or the parties involved.
Youth Grievances
OYA youth or their parents/guardians have a right to file a grievance or complaint whenever they believe they have been dealt with unfairly or their rights have been violated. Staff must provide grievance forms to a youth or family member upon their request.
Grievances and complaints are often made in a variety of formats, including verbal statements, letters or other written statements. These will be acted on immediately in the same manner as a Youth Grievance Form and will not be delayed waiting for a specific form.
Download Youth Grievance Form (PDF) - This form is for use by OYA youth or their parents/guardians only. Copies of this form are also available in the living units at OYA facilities.
Youth Rights
OYA policy mandates that staff will not discriminate against youth based on race, national origin, creed, gender, sexual orientation, or mental/physical handicap. Facility and field supervision is intended to provide youth with access to programs, services, and a level of supervision that promotes personal reformation and development.
Youth will not be subjected to:
- Discrimination
- Corporal or unusual punishment
- Physical abuse
- Mental abuse
- Verbal abuse
- Humiliation
- Punitive interference with daily functions of living
Youth will not be denied:
- Regular meals
- Exercise
- Sufficient sleep
- Medical care
- Correspondence privileges
- Legal assistance
- Religious rights
- Voting privileges for youth over 18 years old