Artificial intelligence (AI) is a broad term that covers a range of technological developments that allow machines to learn and problem solve in a human-like manner. It is becoming increasingly present in people’s everyday lives.
With its speed of development and widespread usage, there are a number of concerns and questions about whether there is an appropriate role for AI in social work and if so, what that role might look like.
To date, there has been no uniform or consistent approach to the introduction and use of generative AI in social work. Whilst some organisations have adopted a very cautious approach, others have been more willing to trial new technology.
Generative AI offers potential benefits. However, it also comes with a number of risks and downsides that need to be taken into account at all levels of the profession and in IT teams, commissioning and procurement, when determining what the appropriate role of AI in social work might be, especially in the absence of sector-specific guidance.
BASW’s work on this topic will develop further as understanding and experience of the use of generative AI in social work grows.
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