Our approach to AI

Our approach to AI

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming more common in our work and lives. AI tools like Chat GPT, can be powerful aids, offering ways of working that save time, improve accessibility, and support creativity. 

But there are some challenges when it comes to writing grant applications.

Can I use AI to help with my application?

That’s up to you. 

We’re interested in understanding your work, your approach and the difference you’re making, so your application should reflect your voice and experience. If you choose to use AI we recommend using it to support your thinking or structure, not to write the application for you.  

We have noticed that AI-generated applications can include errors, generic information, and don’t always make sense. Always check the accuracy of any information AI provides and ensure it’s used as a support but not to replace your organisation’s unique voice or story. Remember: don’t put personal or identifiable details into AI tools.

Using AI responsibly  

We understand AI can be a huge time-saving tool for writing grant applications. But we want your insights to be at the heart of your application, so here are some tips for using it effectively and responsibly.

Getting the most out of AI in your grant application 

1. Let AI help with structure, not content

We want to get a good feel for your organisation’s work and the people you support.  AI tools can be useful, but they sometimes make it hard for us to see what makes your organisation special.  

Applications written in your own words give a much better insight into your work. If you use AI, let it help structure your application rather than the content.  

For example, you could use AI to give you a template or suggest themes you want to write about, based on application guidelines. This can help you organise thoughts and cover key areas. But you know your organisation and community better than the AI tools and writing about them in your own words should be the focus. Make sure you don’t include generic information, or content that doesn’t make sense. Getting someone else who is good with words to proofread it before you submit is a good idea. 

2. Check accuracy

Do not trust that any information given to you by AI is correct. Sometimes, AI gives us information that may “sound” correct, even when it isn’t. If you use AI for research, try tools that show their sources of information. This will help ensure you are using information from trusted places.  

We ask that you always double-check facts in your application and supporting information to make sure they are right. 

3. Protect your privacy

Do not share any sensitive or personal information with AI tools. The companies that own AI tools may not be keeping it safe. Before you put any information into AI, make sure there any private or personal data has been removed – this is part of your responsibility to comply with GDPR, privacy and child protection regulations. 

Learning together 

AI is always changing. We want to learn how it is used, and how it can work better for you. We will use feedback and research to update our guidance regularly. In the your grant fund’s application form, we ask for feedback. We encourage you to share how you use AI tools for your application and whether our AI guidance was helpful to you. Your input will help us improve and support applicants in the future.