Why we have this policy
This policy explains how we expect you to use artificial intelligence (AI) tools and systems while working at Essex County Council.
When using AI tools, you should follow the information in this policy.
If there is anything you don’t understand or if you need support, you should:
- ask your manager
- contact the IT Training Team on the Assyst portal
- contact the information governance team at IGTeam@essex.gov.uk
All AI tools must be used responsibly to comply with all relevant laws and regulations and council rules. Your use of AI should be in line with the council’s Equality, diversity and inclusion policy statement, our code of conduct and the Equality Act 2010.
What we mean by ‘AI’
‘AI’ means any computer systems designed to perform tasks that typically require human intelligence. This includes but is not limited to:
- traditional AI that uses rules and algorithms to analyse data, spot patterns and make decisions for specific tasks, such as image recognition or virtual assistants like Siri - it’s good at identifying existing patterns but cannot create new content
- generative AI such as Copilot can create new content, such as text, images, audio or code – it's powerful but it also raises questions about accuracy, bias, and transparency
- AI powered chatbots that answer customer service questions
- robotic process automation (RPA), which uses AI to automate repetitive and rule-based tasks typically performed by humans
Who this policy is for
This policy is for anyone who uses AI for Essex County Council business purposes including:
- employees
- contractors
- third parties working on behalf of the council
Review
We will regularly check and update this policy to make sure it follows all legislation in England and Wales and council rules and guidelines.