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Practical AI for Councils & Communities

Using Artificial Intelligence Responsibly

Artificial Intelligence is a powerful tool — but only when it’s used responsibly, transparently, and with people at the centre.

At Widescope Web Design, we use AI to support councils, local services, and community organisations by reducing admin time, improving access to information, and helping teams focus on what matters most: serving local people.

Our Approach to AI

AI-assisted. Human-led.

We don’t deploy AI as a replacement for staff, judgement, or accountability. Instead, we use it as a supporting tool — always with human oversight.

Our approach is guided by four principles:

  1. People first – AI as a resource
    AI should help staff work more effectively, not remove roles or decision-making. Humans remain responsible for outputs, decisions, and public-facing information.
  2. Practical, not experimental
    We use AI where it delivers clear, real-world benefits, such as:
    • Reducing repetitive admin tasks
    • Assisting with content drafting and formatting
    • Supporting data review and information management
    We avoid unproven or high-risk applications.
  3. Ethical and transparent
    We are open about when and how AI is used. No hidden automation. No opaque decision systems.
  4. Accessible and inclusive
    AI-assisted content must still meet:
    • Accessibility standards
    • Plain-English expectations
    • Equality and inclusion requirements
    Artificial Intelligence should be used to lower barriers — not create new ones.

Where We Use AI

AI may be used to assist with:

  • Drafting and structuring content
  • Summarising long documents or datasets
  • Supporting website and CMS workflows
  • Improving consistency and clarity in public information

All outputs are reviewed, edited, and approved by a human before use.

Where We Don’t Use AI

We do not use AI for:

  • Automated decision-making affecting individuals
  • Surveillance or monitoring of staff or residents
  • Replacing professional judgement or accountability
  • Publishing unreviewed AI-generated content

If AI isn’t appropriate, we don’t use it.

Data, Privacy & Security

  • We do not train AI systems on confidential or personal council data
  • Sensitive information is handled through established, secure systems
  • AI tools are selected with data protection and compliance in mind

If in doubt, AI is not used.

Who We Work With

We support:

  • Town & parish councils
  • Community organisations & charities
  • Local services and not-for-profit bodies

Our work focuses on practical IT systems, accessibility-led web design, and responsible use of modern technology.

Let’s Talk About AI and Your Organisation

If you’d like to discuss:

  • Where AI could help your organisation
  • Where it definitely shouldn’t be used
  • How to approach AI cautiously and responsibly

We’re always happy to have a conversation.

Technology should work for people — not the other way around.

Contact Us!