black solicitors network re-launch

The re-launch of the Black Solicitors Network, following its official status as a recognised group within the Law Society in July 2003, spells a new era of hope for black students from the African or Caribbean descent.

With recognised status has come much needed funds which will enable the BSN to pursue a programme of events for the benefit of members.

The aim of the group, now grown into an organisation with a membership base of approximately 2500, is to be the primary voice of black solicitors and to achieve equality of access, retention and progress of black solicitors in the profession.To help us achieve this BSN members have represented our interests in other organisations including the Trainee Solicitors Group, the Young Solicitors Group, the Association of Women Solicitors, and The Law Society ’s Access to Justice Committee and the Law Society ’s Diversity Forum. Further, BSN and the Commission for Racial Equality have teamed up to launch the first league table ranking law firms by diversity.
 
The profile of the BSN has continued to grow and the Government, the Legal Services Commission and the Law Society now regularly consult us. Our higher profile has also resulted in the Law Society Council approving the designation of a BSN Council Seat. In August 2004, BSN Director, Michael Webster, was duly elected as the first BSN Council member.
 
BSN intends to use its website www.blacksolicitorsnetwork.co.uk as a base for relevant information and as a resource for members on courses being made available through the Law Society and other providers. The site is shortly to be re-launched.

The group is also in the process of developing a mentoring scheme. More details will be placed on the group’s website as it develops. Further, through contacts with professional members of the group it is intended that work placements will be arranged for student members who do not as yet have experience of working within a solicitors practice.

However the process is not one sided. Student members are actively encouraged to participate within the BSN and to inform the group of their needs. The best way for a student to progress through the BSN is to become a member of one of the committees, details of which are contained on our website.

The BSN recognises that it is a big challenge for students to pursue a career in law in the present economic climate. Through various schemes and networking facilities, the Black Solicitors Network provides a gentle buffer, which students can fall back on, to help them ease the way.