Plymouth Considers AI for Social Care and Special Education Needs

Plymouth is thinking about using AI for social care. AI could help manage demand and boost productivity. The council wants AI to draft reports quickly. These reports are for kids with special needs who need education, health, and care plans.

A council manager affirms that AI won’t replace people but could reduce admin work for staff. Right now, reporting is complex, and AI could handle eighty percent of initial report work. Experts would then finalize them, ensuring tough judgements are still made by people.

Since 2010, Plymouth has had more kids with these care plans. Last year, nearly 3,000 kids had them. Plans show extra help they need, and this support helps them reach their goals. Councilors want better services for these kids, especially since Ofsted and the Care Quality Commission had concerns in 2023.

Council member Sue Dann said demand is rising while budgets are not. They are exploring tech to free staff, letting them focus on tougher issues. Another councilor, Ian Poyser, agrees and thinks AI can help a lot and improve how things get done.