Find data ethics guidance, standards and frameworks
Source: gov.uk (2025-01-30)

Find guidance for the responsible use and development of data and data technologies developed by and for government and public sector bodies.

Use this tool to find data ethics guidance from across government. You can use the filter and search functions to identify the most relevant pieces of information for your organisation’s needs.

Start now (https://www.gov.uk/data-ethics-guidance)

Email xxx@xxx.xx (mailto:xxx@xxx.xx) if you have questions or suggestions about data ethics guidance, or are aware of further relevant guidance that should be included.

Working in government and the public sector

We encourage anyone working in the government and public sector to refer to the documents below to develop a high-level understanding of key data ethics considerations.

Using data appropriately and responsibly

The Data Ethics Framework (https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/data-ethics-framework) explains how to use data appropriately and responsibly when planning, implementing and evaluating a new policy or service.

The Model for Responsible Innovation (https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/the-model-for-responsible-innovation/the-model-for-responsible-innovation) is a practical tool to help teams across the public sector and beyond to innovate responsibly with data and AI.

When working with public sector data, you have a responsibility to establish whether the data you manage and use is fit for purpose. The Government Data Quality Framework (https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/the-government-data-quality-framework) and Data Sharing Governance Framework (https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/data-sharing-governance-framework/data-sharing-governance-framework) set out principles and practices to improve the quality and better use of data across government.

Using AI and algorithmic tools

The Generative AI Framework for HMG (https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/generative-ai-framework-for-hmg) explains how to use generative AI safely and responsibly.

The Algorithmic Transparency Recording Standard (ATRS) (https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/algorithmic-transparency-recording-standard-hub) provides a standard for public sector organisations to publish information about how and why they are using algorithmic methods in decision-making processes that affect members of the public.

The Ethics, Transparency and Accountability Framework for Automated Decision-Making (https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/ethics-transparency-and-accountability-framework-for-automated-decision-making/ethics-transparency-and-accountability-framework-for-automated-decision-making) aims to help government departments with the safe, sustainable and ethical use of automated and algorithmic decision-making systems.

AI assurance is vital to ensure the reliability and trustworthiness of AI systems. The Responsible Technology Adoption Unit’s (RTA) introduction to AI Assurance (https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/introduction-to-ai-assurance/introduction-to-ai-assurance) identifies assurance techniques that can support the development of responsible AI.

You can find additional information about tools and processes that support the responsible use of AI at the RTA’s Responsible AI Toolkit (https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/responsible-ai-toolkit#:~:text=This%20toolkit%20of%20guidance%20aims,over%20time%20with%20new%20resources) page.

Managing and procuring digital projects

You must use the criteria in The Technology Code of Practice (https://www.gov.uk/guidance/the-technology-code-of-practice) to design, build and buy technology in government.

When procuring AI solutions from third parties, refer to the Guidelines for AI procurement (https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/guidelines-for-ai-procurement/guidelines-for-ai-procurement). This includes principles for buying AI technology and insights on tackling challenges that may arise during procurement.