On Wednesday 4 November, Yorkshire Universities and Barnsley Council launched a collaborative project to explore the responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI) in public services and better understand residents’ expectations.
Teams of students and graduates from the University of Bradford, Leeds Beckett University and Leeds Trinity University will generate new evidence-informed insights to support the responsible use of AI in Barnsley’s public services. Each team will draw on a range of disciplines, including behavioural science, organisational psychology, human-computer interaction and public-service design, to develop practical recommendations for the council.
By working together, local authorities and universities can build public sector capacity, provide applied learning opportunities for the region’s graduates and help develop solutions to local challenges.
At the launch event, YU Skills Associate John Harrison said:
“Working with Barnsley Council, we hope to build a clearer picture of how AI can serve local residents, as well as offer students and graduates from across Yorkshire the opportunity to apply their learning to a real-world challenge.”
Councillor Martin Bancroft, Cabinet Spokesperson for Core Services, said:
“AI has the potential to change how we work and deliver services, but it’s important that we understand what that means for our residents and use it responsibly.
“Working with students and graduates from across Yorkshire will bring fresh thinking and help us understand how we can make the most of new technology while keeping residents at the heart of our decisions. I’m looking forward to seeing what they come up with and what we can learn from their work.”
Background
In Autumn 2025, Yorkshire and Humber Local Authority Chief Executives asked Yorkshire Universities to explore how connections between Local Authorities and the higher education sector could be strengthened. This work aims to build leadership capacity and improve graduate recruitment and retention across the public sector. A three-part proposal was put forward, with the ‘Live Project’ pilot conducted in partnership with Calderdale Council serving as the first initiative. Following its success, a second project was agreed in partnership with Barnsley Council. This project is now underway, funded by Yorkshire and Humber Councils under the Memorandum of Understanding.
