NatWest Group has launched a bank-wide accreditation programme in AI and data ethics, rolling out structured training to all 60,000 colleagues as the bank moves to embed responsible AI use across its workforce.
The programme builds on a bespoke course developed in partnership with the University of Edinburgh, which was delivered to around 90 colleagues across three cohorts. NatWest is now making the best of that learning available to every member of staff, with the first modules launching in June and full rollout continuing through to October.
The accreditation takes two to three months to complete and comprises eight e-learning modules aligned to NatWest’s AI Ethics Principles, a collaborative half-day session focused on real-world application, and practical guidance on identifying and managing ethical risks. That includes understanding how to ensure AI-driven decisions are fair and unbiased, and how training data can influence outcomes.
Dr Paul Dongha, head of responsible AI and AI strategy at NatWest Group, said the bank wanted to give colleagues “the skills and confidence to use it responsibly”, adding that the accreditation would help staff “recognise risks, ask the right questions and make better decisions in their day-to-day roles”. He said the programme was aimed at building “a strong culture of responsible AI” to support consistent customer outcomes.
On completion, colleagues will receive an internal NatWest Group accreditation and will be required to undertake ongoing learning as AI capabilities and standards develop.
The launch sits within a broader AI strategy at NatWest that includes role-specific training for staff from frontline colleagues to senior leaders, as well as the rollout of generative AI tools to support research, analysis, customer interactions, fraud prevention and complaints handling. The bank has deployed AI-enabled virtual assistant Cora to help customers manage their finances and access more personalised support.
NatWest has been working with the Financial Conduct Authority as part of its AI Live Testing programme, focused on security and ethical practices in agentic AI technology. The bank also supports the Responsible AI Network, a cross-sector initiative bringing together practitioners, academics and businesses to share best practice, with events held in Manchester this year and a further session planned for June.
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