Public authorities are using robots, algorithms and machine learning to assess welfare and benefit claims, but the systems are often hidden inside a ‘black box’, away from public scrutiny. It matters; not least because the government’s own Centre for Data Ethics and Innovation warned earlier this year “algorithmic bias could lead to greater unfairness” in who gets what from the public purse.
We want to find out more. Have you had difficulties negotiating the computer and IT systems required to apply for welfare payments and benefits? Have you experienced puzzling outcomes, unusual delays or other mysteries? If so please tell us. We are interested to hear from people claiming Universal Credit, housing benefit and council tax benefit among other payments.
How to get in touch
If you are willing, we would like to contact you to help us understand more about how the increasingly automated world is affecting the welfare of millions of people in the UK.
You can share your experiences in the encrypted form below – anonymously if you wish. Only the Guardian will see your responses. One of our journalists will contact you before we publish your story.
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