Introduction
The UK government has established comprehensive policies on the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to ensure its responsible and ethical deployment. These policies are outlined in the AI Opportunities Action Plan, which aims to maximize AI's potential to drive growth and deliver real benefits to people across the UK.
Learn about the Government's AI Opportunities Action Plan
In line with this, Bath & North East Somerset Council is exploring and trialling the use of AI technologies in various areas of our business.
At present we are trialling the following three technologies:
Microsoft Copilot: This tool can assist in various administrative functions, speeding up repetitive or time-consuming manual tasks.
Magicnotes: Utilised specifically within social care, Magicnotes aids in transcribing and then producing high-quality summaries of a wide range of meeting types. Use of this tool has demonstrated time can be saved on administration of meetings and used instead on higher-value work in social care.
Zoom: This is being used for telephony and supporting our contact centre teams. It includes call transcription capabilities that use AI to help summarise calls for staff.
Ensuring Content Accuracy
Although we embrace the efficiencies provided by AI tools, we prioritise the accuracy and reliability of the content they generate. All AI-produced content undergoes review by a Council officer before being used further.
Use of Personal Data by AI Tools
Personal data may be contained within the documents and other data uploaded to our AI Tools. We are the data controller of your personal data when it is used, and the supplier/contractor is a data processor. We have a signed agreement in place with each supplier/contractor to ensure that your personal data is protected. Users of our AI Tools know to process personal data in accordance with the GDPR and our various data protection policies.
None of your personal data is used solely by the AI technology provider to improve their AI products and all data is stored and processed in either the UK or EU.
Decision-Making Process
It is important to note that AI tools are not employed in the decision-making process. All decisions making is made by Council officers, ensuring that human judgement remains central to our operations.
Future Utilisation of AI Tools
The Council remains open to the exploration and integration of additional AI tools where there is a compelling rationale for their use. We are committed to leveraging technology in ways that enhance our services and better serve the community.