Trustee with legal expertise

Organisation Overview

The Council of Somali Organisations was launched in October 2010 as a second tier (or umbrella) agency, to provide infrastructure support to Somali led community Organisations, and to provide a platform to address issues affecting the Somali community in London and at a regional and national level. Our vision is to achieve cohesive, integrated and successful Somali communities in the United Kingdom (UK). To provide a strong, collective and credible voice for the Somali communities across the UK. As well as to articulate the aspirations and interests of Somali communities.

Objectives: Our core objectives are:

• To champion the aspirations and views of Somali organisations and communities in the UK.
• Through policy work and campaigns influence local and central government policies in order to improve the conditions of Somali communities.
• Through research provide a true picture of Somali communities living in the UK.
• To provide high-quality organisational capacity building and technical support that will improve service delivery of our members.

To build and support collaboration between Somali and non-Somali organisations and local authorities and statutory bodies.

Role Details

Time commitment: The time commitment is six evening meetings a year.  Additionally, Board members are expected to attend an away day and AGM and may be invited to additional activities and meetings representing Council of Somali Organisations.

Attendance: Board meetings are usually held online.

Role Description

Role Description: CSO is looking for someone to:

• Support the organisation to assess areas of legal risk.
• Work with the organisation and its staff to develop risk management strategies in relation to legal compliance.
• To provide training to other Board of Trustee members in relevant areas.
• To review and provide guidance on contracts and service agreements.
• To review and set organisational policies in relevant areas.

Board members are expected to attend all board meetings which will last approximately two hours. Papers are distributed one week in advance of meetings and Board members commit to read these in advance. Board members are expected to attend an induction session online prior to their first board meeting.

Required Skills and Experience

Desired Characteristics:

• Legal Expertise.
• A commitment to the mission of Council of Somali Organisations.
• A willingness to meet the minimum time requirement.
• Integrity and good, independent judgement.
• An ability to think creatively.
• A willingness to speak up.
• An ability to work effectively as a member of a team and to make decisions for the good of Council of Somali Organisations.

Council of Somali Organisations is committed to equality and diversity and welcomes applications from all backgrounds.

To apply for or express an interest in this position, please email bicenquiries@weareadvocate.org.uk