NHS Launches AI Framework to Ensure Safe and Ethical AI Use in London

The AI framework is expected to drive collaboration among NHS partners, ensuring consistent evaluation of AI programs and prompt responses to concerns.

The NHS South East London Integrated Care Board (ICB) has launched a comprehensive AI framework to facilitate the safe, ethical, and effective adoption of artificial intelligence across London’s healthcare system. 

The framework, published on March 3, 2025, establishes clear guidelines for introducing, using, and monitoring AI products within the NHS in London.

Developed through a series of collaborative workshops involving digital leaders from the ICB, AI experts, the AI Centre for Value-Based Healthcare, and the Health Innovation Network, the framework is designed to support healthcare professionals and organizations in navigating the complexities of AI-driven healthcare solutions.

Addressing the Gaps in AI Adoption

Prior to the introduction of the NHS AI Framework for London, multiple documents provided guidance on AI in healthcare. However, there was no clear strategy for its practical and safe implementation. 

This new framework seeks to bridge that gap by offering a standardized approach to ensure AI technologies benefit both healthcare providers and patients.

Dr. Chris Streather, regional medical director and chief clinical information officer at NHS England, emphasized the potential of AI in addressing rising demand for NHS services.

“Demand for NHS services continues to increase, and AI has real potential to deliver tangible transformation to improve how we can support people who need care and treatment,” Streather stated. 

“I am delighted that we are using the framework to help ensure we can build a strong collaborative approach to make the most of the promise that AI delivers.”

Enhancing AI Governance & Efficiency

The AI framework is expected to drive collaboration among NHS partners, ensuring consistent evaluation of AI programs and prompt responses to concerns. 

The framework aims to enhance healthcare services and optimize taxpayer value by sharing insights on AI effectiveness across NHS London.

Andrew Bland, chief executive at NHS South East London, highlighted the framework’s role in ensuring transparency and improving patient care, “AI offers a huge opportunity to our residents, and I am pleased that my team at South East London Integrated Care System have driven this work forward on behalf of London. Through using this framework, all partners will be able to share information on AI programs and how well any tools are doing so that we can learn from one another and improve or respond to concerns rapidly.”

The launch of the NHS AI Framework for London aligns with the UK government’s broader AI strategy. 

In January 2025, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced the AI Opportunities Action Plan, which includes the development of a national data library to unlock the value of public data and accelerate AI advancements in healthcare and beyond.

By implementing this AI framework, the NHS aims to ensure that patients, healthcare professionals, and communities benefit from safe, ethical, and effective AI-driven healthcare solutions while also contributing to the UK’s AI innovation ecosystem.

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