The social workers’ charity, in collaboration with the University of Oxford’s AI Ethics Institute and Digital Care Hub, has announced the launch of the Social Workers’ Guide and Statement of Expectations on the Responsible Use of AI in Adult Social Care.
This key document, written by frontline workers in England, Wales and Scotland, lays the foundations for the ethical integration of artificial intelligence (AI), particularly generative AI, into the social care sector.
On 17 May 2024, frontline healthcare professionals gathered at Reuben College, University of Oxford for a roundtable discussion on ‘The Responsible Use of (Generative) Artificial Intelligence in Adult Social Care’. The ideas and concerns raised during this session were summarised in the recently published statement, which serves as a voice for those most directly impacted by AI technology: healthcare professionals and the people they support.
This statement is an important step in the ongoing dialogue about the role of AI in adult social care. It sets out the expectations of healthcare professionals towards employers, AI developers, policy makers, local authorities and the Care Quality Commission (CQC). The aim is to ensure that AI is used responsibly, with a focus on improving care rather than replacing the human connection that is at the heart of a quality service.
Key aspects of the statement include:
- Ethical integration: Guidelines for employers and developers on the ethical development and deployment of AI in healthcare settings.
- Policy recommendations: Suggestions for policy makers and local authorities on how to regulate AI to protect the interests of social workers and service users.
- Peer Guidance: Practical advice for healthcare professionals on the responsible use of generative AI tools, such as ChatGPT or Microsoft Co-pilot, in their daily work.
This statement marks the beginning of a larger research initiative, and the discussion will continue during Health Professionals Week 2024, where the statement will be officially launched and next steps will be explored.
The Future of AI in the Social Sector: Creating a Sector Orientation: Monday 16th September 2024 from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. Speakers:
- Dr. Caroline Emmer of Albuquerque GreenEarly Career Researcher, AI Ethics Institute, University of Oxford
- Katie ThornProject Manager, Digital Care Hub
- James MaynardDirector of Product Marketing, The Access Group
- Ali Al-MuftiFounder, Arcadia Care Homes
- Daniel CassonManaging Director, Casson Consulting
- Alex JosephNursing assistant and round table participant
Join the conversation
The Care Workers’ Charity invites all stakeholders – healthcare workers, employers, policy makers and AI developers – to participate in this vital discussion. The guidance and statement are just a first step in ensuring that the responsible use of AI in social care enhances, rather than undermines, the quality of care provided.
To learn more about the AI Caregiver Guidance and Expectations Statement, or to participate in upcoming discussions during Professional Caregiver Week 2024, please visit: https://www.thecareworkerscharity.org.uk/pcww2024/.
