Use of Artificial Intelligence and automated tools

We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI), automated tools and data analysis to help run services, work more efficiently and support staff to make good decisions.

AI systems are computer tools that can look at information, spot patterns and produce results like summaries, suggestions or predictions. They're used to help people do their jobs, not to replace people.

How we use AI

When we use AI or automated tools, we may use them to:

  • help staff with admin tasks, like writing notes or summarising information
  • look at information to spot trends, possible risks or what services people may need
  • help us provide services that are better, more consistent and faster
  • help prevent fraud, keep people safe (safeguarding) and plan services

Exactly how we use AI depends on the service. We'll only use it with the right checks in place, including risk assessments and proper oversight.

Automated decision-making

We do not use AI to make important decisions about you (decisions with legal or similarly serious effects) without a real person being involved.

If an automated process helps with a decision, an authorised officer will check the information and make the final decision. You can ask for a person to review a decision where automated processing is involved.

Personal data and special category data

AI tools may use personal data. Depending on the service, they may also use special category data (for example, health or social care information) that you give us.

When this happens:

  • we only use what we need for the task
  • we use security and access controls to keep data safe
  • we complete data protection impact assessments (DPIAs) when we must
  • we do not use your data to train public or unrestricted AI tools

Lawful basis and safeguards

If we use AI with personal data, we'll do this in line with the law, including:

  • the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR)
  • relevant sector specific legislation

We put safeguards in place so AI is used in a fair, lawful, open and secure way. This includes contracts with suppliers, human checks and regular reviews of risks.

Transparency and your rights

If we use AI as part of a service, we'll explain this in that service’s privacy notice or in other clear messages to you.

You still have all your data protection rights, including the right to:

  • know how we use your personal data
  • object to some types of data use
  • ask to see your data, fix it or delete it (in some cases)
  • ask for a person to review a decision that uses automated processing

You can find more information about your rights later in this privacy notice.