bournemouth, christchurch and pool The city council is expanding its use of artificial intelligence to support services, including children’s services.
The issue was discussed during a review of the FY 226 and FY 227 children’s services budgets, with lawmakers asking questions about how AI is being used, how it will evolve, and how it will be tested for accuracy before being rolled out broadly across the agency.
Juliet Blake, director of children and social care, said the council was currently spending around £60,000 on translations and had confirmed that no AI would be used on legal documents.
Sarah Chamberlain, director of IT and programs, said initial governance processes have been put in place and each case is tracked and tested with the service to ensure it progresses effectively. He said the system was being piloted in a small area and was being regularly reviewed, and if it was not suitable, “we would stop that particular work.” He added that they have been successful in making financial savings.
The proposed savings schedule shows that £20,000 will be saved in translation fees and £20,000 through mutual consultation AI translation agents.
Councilor Andy Martin said AI had the potential to support rather than replace staff, streamlining day-to-day operations while keeping staff skills and judgment at the heart of council services.
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