The Care Workers’ Charity, in collaboration with the Institute for Ethics in AI at the University of Oxford and Digital Care Hub, has launched the Careworkers’ Guidance and Statement of Expectations on the Responsible Use of AI in Adult Social Care. This critical document, informed by frontline care workers from England, Wales, and Scotland, sets the foundation for the ethical integration of artificial intelligence (AI), particularly generative AI, within the social care sector.
On 17 May 2024, frontline care workers convened at Reuben College, University of Oxford, for a roundtable discussion on the Responsible Use of (Generative) Artificial Intelligence in Adult Social Care. The insights and concerns raised during this session have been encapsulated in the newly released statement, which serves as a voice for those most directly impacted by AI technology – care workers and the individuals they support.
The statement is a significant milestone in the ongoing dialogue around AI’s role in adult social care. It outlines care workers' expectations towards employers, AI developers, policymakers, local authorities, and the Care Quality Commission (CQC). The aim is to ensure that AI is employed responsibly, with a focus on enhancing care rather than replacing the human connection that is central to quality service.
Key aspects of the statement include:
- Ethical Integration: Guidelines for employers and developers on the ethical development and deployment of AI in care settings.
- Policy Recommendations: Suggestions for policymakers and local authorities on how to regulate AI to protect the interests of both care workers and service users.
- Peer Guidance: Practical advice for care workers on the responsible use of generative AI tools, such as ChatGPT or Microsoft Co-pilot, within their daily work.
This statement marks the beginning of a broader research initiative, and the discussion will continue during Professional Care Workers Week 2024 (16-20 September 2024), where the statement will be officially launched, and next steps will be explored.
The Future of AI in Social Care: Creating Sector Guidance: Monday 16 September 2024 12-2pm. Featured speakers:
- Dr. Caroline Emmer De Albuquerque Green, Early Career Research Fellow, Institute for Ethics in AI, University of Oxford
- Katie Thorn, Project Lead, Digital Care Hub
- James Maynard, Product Marketing Director, The Access Group
- Ali Al-Mufti, Founder, Arcadia Care Homes
- Daniel Casson, Managing Director, Casson Consulting
- Alex Joseph, Care Worker and Roundtable Participant
Join the Conversation
The Care Workers’ Charity invites all stakeholders – care workers, employers, policymakers, and AI developers – to engage with this vital conversation. The guidance and statement are just the first step towards ensuring that the responsible use of AI in social care enhances, rather than detracts from, the quality of care delivered.
www.thecareworkerscharity.org.uk/pcww2024
