Regulator Advises Charities to Implement Internal AI Policy

The Charity Commission has advised that charities might want to consider introducing their internal artificial intelligence (AI) policies in light of a new blog post. The advice comes off the back of the Commission’s recognition that AI is developing rapidly within the sector.

Growing usage of AI in charities

According to the 2023 Charity Digital Skills report, some 35% of the charities questioned are already applying AI for many routine functions, and 26% are going to apply this technology in the course of their work soon. But with every new development in AI technology, what charities can see is the new potential to usher in efficiency in processes.

But the Charity Commission highlights it is “of prime importance to ensure AI is being used responsibly to further the aims of the charity.” AI can give a lot of benefits, but the risks must be evaluated and mitigated properly. They should also weigh the benefits against any possible risks of AI adoption within their charity’s mission and responsibilities.

Considerations for charities

Charities are encouraged to assess how AI could be utilized effectively within their organizations. This will involve a concrete evaluation of the benefits and risks with the help of AI tools; the identification of the kind of skills that are necessary for a good deployment of AI; and, finally, the identification of the actors in the development of AI that might play a role in the governance of AI to be used appropriately and that mishaps or errors are fixed swiftly.

Proceeding with caution

However, charity leaders may think about it with some caution and remember some of the dangers if that evolves. The same is true with AI: it can greatly improve many things in charity but is not perfect and can easily feed wrong, also biased, data.

Trustees are reminded of ultimate responsibilities and, at the same time warned away from perfunctory or sole use of AI. The use of AI by the Charity Commission exposes charities to very high risks, so charities must be on guard against the pitfalls and ensure that AI is used ethically and responsibly, never crossing its boundaries.

The role of human oversight

This element of human is very essential, especially in maintaining integrity in the operations of charity and the interaction that takes place with the beneficiary.  Although the prospect of AI integration may seem formidable, according to the Charity Commission, great opportunities are lying in wait for exploitation by these charities in the use and derivation of the advancing technology. Responsible adoption of AI technology by charities is going to improve efficiency and enhance service delivery while at the same time keeping abreast of the latest technology. 

The recommendation, therefore, of the Charity Commission for charities to consider developing their internal AI policies suggests a further push of AI into the charitable sector. Even with the many benefits to offer, AI comes with its own set of challenges that will need careful planning and oversight to overcome. Such an approach to AI adoption through principles will enable charities to embrace the potential of AI in driving and effecting positive change, but at the same time mitigate associated risks.

Original Story From https://www.civilsociety.co.uk/governance/regulator-tells-charities-to-consider-having-an-internal-artificial-intelligence-policy.html