Dorset Council says AI is helping build a more efficient workforce
Despite fears about Artificial Intelligence use, Dorset Council says the technology has made operation more efficient
Dorset Council is turning to artificial intelligence to help create a more efficient workforce, as the authority searches for ways to improve services and manage growing financial pressures.
The council says AI is already widely used across its operations and has the potential to free up staff capacity for frontline work, including in areas where demand is placing heavy pressure on budgets.
A council spokesperson said AI technologies had been used for tasks such as analysing data, identifying patterns, summarising documents and sorting information.
“These tools help us analyse data more effectively,” the spokesperson said. “They enable better decision-making, improve efficiency, and enhance the service we provide to our customers.”
The local authority is also participating in a UK government initiative known as the ‘Incubator for AI’, which allows public sector organisations to test technology designed to improve services.
One of the systems currently being trialled can transcribe meetings and produce summaries for committee papers and minutes, potentially reducing the administrative workload involved in recording council business.
The council said Microsoft Copilot, which it described as “secure”, was among the AI technology already being used within its IT systems.
All projects operate under its Responsible AI Framework, designed to ensure transparency, fairness and accountability, with human oversight remaining part of the decision-making process.
Dorset Council is now considering further uses of AI in “highly pressured areas”, especially in areas where large volumes of information have to be brought together.
The move comes as Dorset Council forecasts an £8.1 million overspend this year, with adult social care and children's services among the biggest pressures.
The council has stressed, however, that AI is intended to support employees rather than replace human judgement.