In December 2023 we launched the Artificial Intelligence (AI) community for the UK Government. The community was created by the team that developed the Generative AI Framework for HMG and its learning resources to provide departments with an opportunity to discuss their AI projects with implementation teams and experts across government.
One year later, the AI community has reached over 1,200 members across the Civil Service and the wider public sector, becoming a reference point for departments, local government organisations, and AI-curious colleagues who want to learn more or share information on AI in government.
Who the AI community is for
The AI community now welcomes a wide range of public sector personnel who either work on or have an interest in AI. You don’t need any expertise or technical knowledge of AI to join the community.
Those working in central and local government, the NHS, Police and Fire and Rescue organisations, or any other institutions with GOV.UK related email addresses can use the dedicated form to sign up to the AI community. Academic and industry experts who are interested in presenting their work at one of our events can get in touch with the Government Digital Service’s AI Team.
Our numbers
In January 2024 we ran a survey to understand the demographics of the AI community. These show how the over 1000 members of the community come from across the UK and have a very wide range of skills and expertise.
The AI community includes people from over 100 different government departments, local government organisations, agencies and public institutions, with strong representation from the NHS. Our members work in both technical and non-technical roles including:
- technical roles: Software Engineer, Technical Delivery Lead, Developer, Software Developer, Data Engineer, Technical Lead Web, Data Scientist, Solution Architect, Technical Architect, IT Delivery Manager.
- non-technical roles: Lawyer, User Researcher, Senior Policy Advisor, Content Designer, Business Analyst, Senior Commercial Officer, Senior Service Designer, Programme Lead, Delivery Manager.
The geographic composition of the AI community is equally varied with strong concentration in big cities like London, Manchester, Bristol, and Birmingham, along with significant regional representation from Yorkshire, South East England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
What we offer
The AI community offers a range of activities including online talks, in-person conferences, and outreach events. Plus a monthly newsletter covering all the latest AI news from across government.
The AI community convenes monthly online, providing a platform for individuals interested in AI to engage with expert speakers from both within and outside the government. In addition to teams from many government departments presenting their AI projects and products, we’ve had speakers from academic institutions such as the Alan Turing Institute and various UK universities, as well as from leading tech firms.
In November 2024 we held our first in person event in London. Following the success of this event, we are planning to hold four in person events across the UK each year. This year the GDS AI Team attended over 35 outreach events and conferences across the UK including Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Our talks and events cover a range of topics, including new AI products, ethics, security, and emerging applications of AI technologies in government. The community also offers a space to share experiences (including challenges!) and exchange best practices, fostering collaboration on AI in government.
What’s next
In February 2025 we’ll host our second in person event in London. Tickets are sold out but you can join us virtually on Teams. To be invited to the online event and receive information on future events, sign up to the AI community’s newsletter.
We’re currently setting up an AI Engagement Board to allow senior grades (G7 and above) from different departments to share updates and collaborate more closely on AI adoption. This board will help disseminate AI playbooks, resources and products more effectively across government, helping to avoid siloed approaches and duplication of work.
Call for action
Don't get left behind, sign up to the AI community newsletter to join the community and receive communications about new AI guidance and upcoming events. Check out our new AI courses on Civil Service Learning to know more on AI in government.
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