Why Every UK Charity Needs an AI Policy (And How to Create One)
As artificial intelligence (AI) becomes increasingly integrated into our daily lives, it's essential for charities to have a clear framework for its use. An AI policy is a crucial document that outlines your organisation's approach to AI, ensuring that it is used ethically, responsibly, and in line with your values. This guide will explain why every UK charity needs an AI policy and how you can create one.
The Importance of an AI Policy
An AI policy serves several important functions:
It provides clarity and consistency: A clear policy ensures that everyone in your organisation understands how AI should and should not be used.
It mitigates risk: An AI policy can help you to identify and mitigate the potential risks associated with AI, such as data breaches, algorithmic bias, and reputational damage.
It builds trust: A transparent AI policy can help to build trust with your donors, beneficiaries, and other stakeholders.
It ensures compliance: An AI policy can help you to ensure that you are complying with relevant laws and regulations, such as the UK GDPR.
What to Include in Your AI Policy
Your AI policy should be tailored to the specific needs of your organisation, but there are some key elements that every policy should include:
A statement of principles: This should outline your organisation's commitment to using AI ethically and responsibly.
Guidelines for acceptable use: This should provide clear guidance on how AI can and cannot be used in your organisation.
Data protection and privacy: This should explain how you will protect the data of your donors, beneficiaries, and staff when using AI.
Roles and responsibilities: This should clarify who is responsible for overseeing the use of AI in your organisation.
A process for reviewing and updating the policy: Your AI policy should be a living document that is regularly reviewed and updated to reflect changes in technology and best practice.
Creating Your AI Policy: A Step-by-Step Guide
Creating an AI policy doesn't have to be a daunting task. Here's a simple, step-by-step guide to get you started:
Assemble a working group: This should include representatives from across your organisation, including leadership, fundraising, service delivery, and IT.
Conduct a risk assessment: This will help you to identify the potential risks associated with AI in your organisation.
Draft the policy: Use our customisable AI policy template to create a draft policy that is tailored to the specific needs of your organisation.
Consult with stakeholders: Share the draft policy with your staff, volunteers, and other stakeholders to get their feedback.
Finalise and approve the policy: Once you have incorporated feedback from your stakeholders, the policy should be finalised and approved by your board of trustees.
