How artificial intelligence can make social care better
18 Dec 2024
6 min read
We hear from John Clarke, Head of Cloud and AI Advisory at Ancoris, on their hopes for AI and the future of adult social care.
Social care is about utilising human connections to enable those being supported to live happy and fulfilling lives. At Ancoris, we’re pushing for a world where artificial intelligence (AI) empowers social care professionals, not replaces them. We want to help this sector by developing innovative and ethical AI solutions that facilitate better relationships between care organisations and those they support.
It is widely accepted that AI is at the peak of inflated expectations, and we know what comes next. We are awash with exciting use cases across many sectors that remain just that - use cases. But for organisations who are trying to deliver the highest quality care they can, cutting through the noise and identifying real, tangible value is crucial.
How is AI already changing social care?
Although not widely adopted across the sector yet, AI is already impacting social care in ways that are making a tangible difference to both professionals and the people being supported.
One of the most immediate impacts I've seen is how AI enhances information access. With AI-driven language and search tools, it’s now possible to sift through large volumes of data far more quickly. Popular tools, such as ChatGPT, are already being used by organisations looking to manage this data more easily, helping to lessen the administrative burden of care.
Another area where AI is making waves is in resource allocation. In social care, time is precious, and AI-powered scheduling tools are helping us use that time more effectively. By analysing factors like location, urgency, and availability, AI-driven tools can help optimise things like home care visit schedules so that carers spend less time on the road and more time supporting the people who need them.
Finally, AI is helping to streamline reporting processes. With AI being more capable than ever at interpreting information, reports can be written clearly and concisely in far less time than before. For some staff, such as those who dislike writing or those writing in a language other than their native language, such features can be unbelievably valuable.
Moving from idea to impact
The key to successfully integrating AI in social care lies in viewing it as an assistant or buddy, designed to support and integrate into existing workflows. Its impact will be realised through the automation or acceleration of repetitive tasks and the provision of new insights for improved decision-making.
When I think about implementing AI in social care, the first thing that comes to mind is the need to prioritise ethical considerations. We deal with a lot of sensitive data, and ensuring that it’s protected is crucial. This means paying close attention to data privacy, being aware of algorithmic biases, and maintaining transparency in how AI systems operate. I believe that adopting a secure-by-design approach is essential to keep the data of the people we care for safe. We can’t afford to overlook these issues if we want AI to be both trusted and effective.
Another key step is to clearly identify the problems AI can help solve. For me, this means starting small and looking at areas where AI could have the most immediate and noticeable impact. By beginning with manageable projects, I’ve found it easier to demonstrate the value AI brings and to build a better understanding of how it can be integrated into existing systems. These small wins not only build confidence in the technology but also create momentum for larger AI initiatives in the future.
Finally, focusing on user needs is essential. In social care, the end-users are often carers and support staff, so any AI solution needs to be intuitive and fit seamlessly into their current workflows. It’s important to design with the user in mind to ensure that the technology enhances their work rather than complicating it. I’ve also learned that regularly measuring the impact of AI, gathering feedback, and iterating on the technology is crucial to make sure it delivers real value and continues to meet the evolving needs of the sector.
The human element
It's crucial to emphasise that AI should not replace human connection in social care. The most effective AI solutions augment the capabilities of care professionals, enabling them to provide more compassionate, personalised and effective care.
Building trust in AI technology is essential. Transparency, explainable AI models, and high-quality data are crucial for mitigating bias and ensuring equitable outcomes. While AI can provide valuable insights, human judgment and experience remain indispensable for interpreting information and making informed decisions.
Looking ahead
AI has the potential to transform social care by optimising processes, improving access to information, and freeing up professionals to focus on delivering high-quality care. However, successful implementation requires a thoughtful and ethical approach, with a focus on user needs, transparency, and continuous evaluation. By embracing AI responsibly, we can leverage its power to enhance the lives of those receiving care and empower the dedicated professionals who support them.
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