BASW position statement: Use of Palantir technologies in social work services
BASW recognises that digital tools such as those that use Artificial Intelligence (AI) are becoming more common across public services, including social care. Technology can help services work more efficiently and support safeguarding work. However, BASW has serious concerns about the use of systems developed by companies where there are concerns about ethical practice such as Palantir within social work services in local authorities including Coventry Council. There has been widespread opposition to Palantir's involvement in UK public services including campaigners, social workers, and the Mayor of London.
Palantir technologies have been used in military and warfare operations and enforcement of hostile immigration enforcement practices, which has caused widespread opposition from campaigners. A more specific concern about use of Palantir technologies in social work service delivery is how their technology can be used for mass surveillance and digital records of vulnerable individuals.
BASW has spoken out against the Home Office's hostile immigration policies having an in-built influence on the National Age Assessment Board due to being part of the Home Office, and we share the same concerns about Palantir's leadership and their political positions which ring alarm bells for those who work in people-focused professions such as social work. There are valid concerns about how the data collected and stored in Palantir systems could be used in the future.
Social work is built on trust, relationships, professional judgement, and a commitment to human rights and social justice. Any technology used in this context needs to support those values, and we are concerned that Palantir as a company does not do so. Media coverage of Palantir has raised concerns for social work as a rights-based profession.
BASW supports innovation where it genuinely improves support for children, families, and adults. But social work must remain a human profession centred on care, relationships, dignity, and social justice.
The use of powerful data analytics platforms created by companies like Palantir raises important ethical questions that cannot be ignored. All public authorities must ensure that transparency, accountability, and human rights remain at the centre of any technological changes within social work services.
