Thinking through Tech: How can VCSEs use AI safely & effectively?

A free, practical AI workshop for Norfolk VCSE organisations, taking place at Aviva in Norwich on Friday 11 September 2026 at 09:30. Learn how to evaluate AI tools, adopt them responsibly and make confident decisions for your workplace. ## Making AI useful, safe and manageable Designed for voluntary, community and social enterprise teams, this in-person workshop addresses the questions that can make AI adoption difficult: Where should you begin? Which tools are appropriate for a not-for-profit organisation? What risks need managing, and how can you use AI without compromising data protection, ethics or transparency? Digital experts from Aviva will guide attendees through both the opportunities and challenges presented by AI. The workshop is suitable for organisations at any stage of AI adoption, from those exploring the technology for the first time to teams already identifying potential applications. Its content was developed with Aviva in response to research into the AI use, attitudes and support needs of Norfolk’s VCSE networks. ## What the workshop covers The session will explore: - What AI is,and what it is not - The current AI landscape and opportunities for charities and community organisations - Practical applications across content creation, communications, research, administration and fundraising - How to compare common AI platforms by strengths, limitations and cost - GDPR and data-protection considerations - Risk, ethics, sustainability and transparency - The development of simple organisational AI policies - Real-world demonstrations, lessons learned and common pitfalls This is more than a one-way presentation. An extended discussion will give attendees time to raise questions, describe challenges within their own organisations, share concerns and knowledge, and examine opportunities they have already identified. Tea, coffee and refreshments will be provided. ## Who should attend?… Register for this event