NatWest has launched a bank-wide accreditation in AI and Data Ethics to support responsible use of artificial intelligence, making the expertise available to 60,000 staff members. The programme builds on NatWest's pioneering partnership with the University of Edinburgh, the bank announced.
The training, which is expected to take two to three months to complete, begins with modules launching in June and full rollout continuing through to October. It includes eight structured e-learning modules aligned to NatWest's AI Ethics Principles and a collaborative half-day session focused on real-world application.
Practical Guidance for Ethical AI Use
The accreditation provides practical guidance to help colleagues identify, assess and manage ethical risks when using AI in day-to-day roles. This includes understanding how to ensure AI-driven decisions are fair and unbiased, and how the data used to train them can influence outcomes.
On completion, colleagues will receive an internal NatWest Group accreditation in AI and Data Ethics and will be required to complete ongoing learning as AI capabilities and standards continue to evolve.
Leadership Perspective
Dr Paul Dongha, Head of Responsible AI and AI Strategy at NatWest Group, said: “As AI becomes increasingly embedded in how we serve customers and run our bank, it’s important that we equip colleagues with the skills and confidence to use it responsibly.”
He added: “Building on our existing AI and data ethics training, this accreditation gives our colleagues even more practical tools to recognise risks, ask the right questions and make better decisions in their day-to-day roles. By bringing this to all our colleagues, we’re building a strong culture of responsible AI – helping ensure we continue to be a trusted partner to our customers by meeting their needs, improving their banking experience and delivering consistent outcomes.”
Colleague Feedback
One colleague who took part in a pilot of the scheme said: “AI is already becoming a really useful part of my day‑to‑day work, helping me find information more quickly and respond to customers more efficiently while making sure they get the right support. I can see it playing an even bigger role going forward, so having this kind of training will be really important in helping me use these tools confidently, understand where the risks are, and make sure I’m using them in a responsible way.”
