Derby’s AI transformation takes centre stage

What a remarkable bank holiday weekend it was for ICS.AI – and for Derby City Council. Our trailblazing AI work supporting adult social care caught national attention, with features across major outlets leading with The Telegraph. It’s not every day that technology, responsibility, and community service converge so strongly in public consciousness.

The Telegraph framed the story with a thoughtful overview of Derby's AI journey. It highlighted how, as resource pressures mount, innovation becomes both a necessity and an opportunity. Their reporting underscored Derby’s role as a pioneer in deploying sensitive, real‑world AI applications, with ICS.AI’s human‑in‑the‑loop Smart: Adult Social Care Copilot at the centre.

The Daily Mail, GB News, and others followed suit – some with more critical tones, others more measured – reinforcing that our efforts are sparking a much‑needed public dialogue about the intersection of AI and the care economy.

In our recent collaboration:

• Derby implemented the UK’s first generative AI phone assistant for the public sector – the evolved ‘Darcie’ – delivering intelligent, multilingual voice support across channels and reducing transferred calls by 84% during peak periods.

• The initiative sits within a broader AI transformation that has already identified £7.5 million in savings, including £2 million in adult social care so far – part of a bold £7 million programme launched in 2024.

• ICS.AI has extended a £5 million savings guarantee to qualifying councils using our SMART: Unified AI Platform – based on results seen in Derby, with potential ROI of over 300%.

Looking ahead: A bright horizon

While the Daily Express’ article injected valid concerns from the public, we take it as a reminder of the responsibility we hold. Being the first in the world to deploy AI in such sensitive services generates scrutiny – and that’s exactly why our human-in-the-loop approach is not just strategic, but imperative.

We’re not replacing care; we’re augmenting human professionals’ capacity to deliver it.

There has never been a more thrilling time to work in technology. Derby City Council – and other councils and public sector bodies we work with – embody what’s possible when ambition meets accountability.

To councils considering whether AI could do the same for them: the proof is here. With our guarantee, our unified platform, and our unwavering emphasis on human-centred deployment, the door is open.

Let’s continue to shape a future where technology amplifies humanity – together.

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