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Using AI Responsibly in Central Government: Building Skills, Confidence and Good Governance

Picture of Kathryn Williams   Kathryn Williams  ·  4 minute read

Artificial intelligence (AI) is creating new opportunities for central government departments, from improving productivity and streamlining administrative tasks to supporting policy development and enhancing public services.

But as AI becomes more widely adopted across government, so does the need to ensure it is used safely, ethically and responsibly.

For departments, this means more than introducing new technology. Employees need to understand how AI works, recognise its limitations and know how to use it appropriately within their roles.

So, how can central government organisations build the skills and confidence needed to make the most of AI while maintaining appropriate safeguards?

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Contents:

Why is responsible AI important in central government?

Government departments handle sensitive information and make decisions that can have significant consequences for individuals and communities. This makes responsible AI adoption particularly important.

Some of the key considerations include:

  • Data security: Protecting sensitive information and understanding which AI tools are approved for use.
  • Accuracy: Recognising that AI-generated content can contain errors or misleading information.
  • Bias and fairness: Understanding how AI outputs could reinforce existing inequalities.
  • Accountability: Ensuring employees retain responsibility for decisions supported by AI.
  • Human oversight: Using AI to support professional judgement, rather than replace it.

The UK Government's AI Playbook sets out 10 principles to support the safe, effective and responsible use of AI across government. These include understanding AI's limitations, maintaining human control, managing risks and ensuring employees have the necessary skills.

The message is clear: responsible AI is not just a technology issue. It requires the right knowledge and behaviours across the workforce.

AI adoption is growing across government

The need to develop AI capability is already reflected in government activity.

According to the 2025 Cross-Civil Service People Survey, 61% of respondents reported using AI, highlighting how quickly the technology is becoming part of everyday working practices.

The Government has also confirmed that more than 221,000 civil servants participated in its AI for All learning initiative between October 2025 and February 2026, demonstrating the scale of investment in building AI literacy.

However, understanding AI is only the starting point. Employees also need practical guidance on applying it to their responsibilities, following departmental policies and recognising when human judgement is essential.

What AI skills do central government employees need?

Different teams will have different requirements, but several areas are becoming increasingly important:

  • AI literacy: Understanding how AI works, its capabilities and its limitations.
  • Ethical AI and governance: Recognising risks around bias, transparency, accountability and data protection.
  • Generative AI skills: Using tools such as ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot effectively and responsibly.
  • Practical application: Applying AI to research, policy development, communications, reporting and everyday tasks.

For example, policy teams may want to explore AI-assisted research and briefing preparation, while communications professionals could benefit from learning how to generate and review content responsibly.

Senior leaders may need a stronger understanding of AI governance and organisational readiness, while operational teams may benefit from practical training focused on improving productivity.

The most effective training reflects these different requirements rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach.

How ModernGov can help

At ModernGov, we provide specialist training to help public sector professionals develop the skills and confidence needed to navigate digital transformation.

Our Digital, Data & Future Skills courses cover a range of AI-related topics, helping departments build understanding, address risks and explore practical applications.

ModernGov's AI training includes:

Ethics of Artificial Intelligence in the Public Sector

Explore the ethical, legal and reputational considerations of AI adoption, including bias, privacy, accountability and developing responsible AI frameworks.

Understanding AI in the Public Sector

Build an understanding of AI technologies, their applications across government and the opportunities and challenges they present.

Microsoft Copilot for the Public Sector

Develop practical skills in using Copilot across Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint and Teams, including prompt writing, summarising information and improving everyday productivity.

Utilising AI in Content Generation

Discover how generative AI can support content creation while maintaining accuracy, relevance and responsible working practices.

Explore our Digital, Data & Future Skills courses to find out more.

Webinar: Understanding AI Risk in the Public Sector

Practical insights for using AI safely and responsibly across government.

Join AI expert Alan Rutter for a free webinar exploring the risks, challenges and considerations public sector organisations need to understand when adopting AI.

17th November 2026 (12:30–13:30)

What you'll explore:

  • Understanding key AI risks and limitations.
  • Recognising potential ethical and security concerns.
  • Supporting responsible AI adoption across your organisation.
Register for the Free Webinar Now

 

Webinar

Why tailored AI training matters

Every government department has different priorities, policies, approved technologies and levels of digital confidence.

While existing courses provide a strong starting point, some organisations require training that addresses their specific challenges.

Through our tailored and bespoke training, we can develop programmes around your department's requirements, including:

  • Applying responsible AI principles to everyday working practices.
  • Understanding departmental AI policies and data security requirements.
  • Developing practical Microsoft Copilot and generative AI skills.
  • Exploring AI applications in policy, communications and service delivery.
  • Building confidence among employees with different levels of experience.

We can adapt existing courses to suit your objectives or develop a completely bespoke programme from scratch.

Training can be delivered online, in person or through a blended approach, with flexible half-day, full-day and multi-session options.

What do participants say about our AI training?

Our training combines expert knowledge with practical exercises, helping participants understand how AI can be applied to their work.

Recent feedback includes:

"The training was really thorough and allowed time for experimentation of Copilot that consolidated the learning."

Understanding AI in the Public Sector attendee

"Copilot session was an absolute game changer! Will make my job so much easier and save me a lot of time."

DWP participant

"Blown away by this session. It will save me a lot of time and has converted me to an advocate for using Copilot."

HMCTS participant

Helping your department use AI confidently and responsibly

As AI continues to reshape the public sector, developing workforce capability will be essential to making the most of its opportunities while managing the associated risks.

From understanding AI ethics and governance to developing practical Copilot skills, employees need the knowledge and confidence to use these technologies appropriately.

At ModernGov, we help central government departments develop these capabilities through practical, expert-led and tailored training.

Looking to develop AI skills across your department?

Speak to our team about existing courses or bespoke training designed around your organisation's priorities.

Email inhouse@moderngov.com or explore our bespoke training options.

Enquire About AI Training for Your Team

 

Frequently asked questions

What is responsible AI use in central government?

Responsible AI means using artificial intelligence safely, ethically and transparently, with appropriate safeguards around data protection, accuracy, bias and human accountability.

Why do civil servants need AI training?

AI training helps civil servants understand emerging technologies, recognise potential risks and use tools such as Microsoft Copilot appropriately within their roles.

What AI training does ModernGov offer?

ModernGov offers training covering AI ethics, AI in the public sector, AI techniques, Microsoft Copilot and generative AI content creation. Courses can also be tailored to individual departmental requirements.

Can AI training be bespoke to our department?

Yes. ModernGov can adapt existing courses or develop bespoke training programmes around your department's policies, approved tools, workforce needs and organisational priorities.