AI-powered GOV.UK Chat to streamline access to public services
Tim Coulthard
The UK government has launched a new artificial intelligence-powered chat tool designed to help people access public services and information more quickly through the GOV.UK app.
GOV.UK Chat, allows users to ask questions in plain language and receive responses based on information published across GOV.UK. The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology said the tool is intended to reduce the need for users to search through thousands of government webpages or contact departmental helplines.
Technology Secretary Peter Kyle said the tool would help simplify interactions with government services: “Whether it’s understanding what support you’re entitled to, checking childcare options, or finding out how to apply for an apprenticeship, GOV.UK Chat will help people get answers faster and more easily,” he said. “This is about using technology to make government work better for people.”
The chatbot has been designed to provide “clear, reliable answers instantly” and uses only information drawn from GOV.UK content. The service will continue to evolve as more departments and services are integrated into the platform.
Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall said the technology could improve how citizens access support and entitlements.
“We want people to be able to access the support they need quickly and easily,” she said. “New digital tools like GOV.UK Chat can help remove barriers and make services more accessible.”
The rollout follows a series of government AI initiatives aimed at improving operational efficiency and reducing administrative workloads across the public sector. Recent projects have included AI systems for analysing consultation responses and tools intended to support civil servants with routine tasks and document handling.
The government has also linked the launch to broader plans for the GOV.UK app, including the future introduction of personalised notifications, digital documents and integrated citizen services.
