Artificial intelligence (AI)

AI is the science and engineering of creating machines and systems to conduct tasks normally done by people. It is changing the way we live, work, and learn. The Welsh Government is exploring how AI could be used across government and the public sector in Wales.

AI could create significant benefits for our economy, public services, and ultimately wider society here in Wales.  We’ve created the following principles to help guide the responsible use of AI so that it is:

• ethical, trustworthy, and aligned with the values and interests of the people of Wales
• inclusive, accessible, and beneficial for everyone, especially the most vulnerable and disadvantaged
• innovative, collaborative, and supportive of our Research and Development ecosystem
• transparent, accountable, and subject to the right governance and oversight

AI technologies are incredibly powerful and potentially transformative, but also come with risks.  That’s why it’s important we understand them better, including their limitations, so the technologies are used in the right ways. 

We are working with the Centre for Digital Public Services (CDPS) to improve AI literacy and awareness across the public sector. 

The CDPS has hosted webinars with organisations such as the The Alan Turing Institute and the Equalities and Human Rights Commission, looking at:

• the basics of AI
• managing bias in AI
• what to consider when procuring AI

Watch the CDPS webinars on YouTube.

The CDPS Artificial Intelligence and Automation Steering Group has published guidance on the responsible and ethical use of AI by the public sector (on Centre for Digital Public Services).

Alongside the CDPS, we will continue to raise awareness and improve the understanding of AI technologies.

Ensuring there is public confidence and trust in the use of AI is crucial.

We want to ensure everyone can find out how we’re using AI in the Welsh Government.  That is why we use the Algorithmic Transparency Reporting Standard (ATRS), which helps the public sector provide clear information on the algorithmic and AI tools and services it is using.  By adhering to the Standard, we will also publish our completed algorithmic transparency records.

Find out more about the Algorithmic Transparency Reporting Standard (ATRS) on GOV.UK.

The Workforce Partnership Council has a working group developing principles and guidance on workforce issues related to AI.   The working group has published 2 reports: managing technology that manages people and using artificial intelligence at work. 

In Wales, we are building a supportive, safe and collaborative environment for AI innovation in the health sector. AI can improve outcomes for patients by helping with:

• cancer diagnostics
• pain management
• operational efficiency

The Artificial Intelligence (AI) Commission for Health and Social Care is an advisory group of senior leaders from health, social care and life sciences. They advise on the safe, responsible and ethical use of AI in health and social care.

The AI Commission for Health and Social Care supports the guidance of the AI and digital regulations service (AIDRS).

Generative AI can transform education if used responsibly, and its use by educators and learners is growing fast. To get help using AI effectively, find guidance and training on generative AI for schools and learners.