University of Bedfordshire's Luton AI partners with Neville Trust group to support responsible AI adoption

Over the next nine to 12 months, Luton AI - the University of Bedfordshire's applied artificial intelligence initiative, supporting organisations to adopt AI in practical, responsible and impactful ways - will work with Neville Trust and its subsidiary companies to assess current AI use, identify opportunities and risks, develop governance and training, and explore secure AI capabilities tailored to the organisation's needs.

Neville Trust Ltd, the parent company of Neville Special Projects, Neville Joinery and Neville Funeral Service, has served the region for more than 150 years and operates across construction, joinery, funeral services and property.

The programme will involve Neville Trust group businesses, with Neville Special Projects acting as the lead organisation during the initial phase. It will provide a comprehensive assessment of current AI use alongside a recommended AI strategy, governance and policy documentation, staff training, and proof-of-concept activity to evaluate secure AI tools across the organisation.

The programme will also establish a foundation for future phases of AI adoption, including the development of further use cases, integration with operational systems, and bespoke AI agents across individual business units.

Dr Ed Braund, Director of Luton AI and the Head of the School of Computing, Engineering, & Creative Industries at the University of Bedfordshire, said: "Neville Trust group has been part of the region's business landscape for more than 150 years, and this programme is about helping the organisation look confidently to the next chapter.

"AI is already changing how organisations operate, but the real value comes from applying it carefully, responsibly and in ways that support people. By working closely with Neville Trust group staff, we can identify where AI can safely add value, improve access to information, strengthen reporting and support better decision-making."

Ian Trumper, Director of Neville Trust Ltd, added: "Neville Trust group has continued to evolve for more than 150 years by staying close to the needs of our customers, staff and communities. As AI becomes an increasingly important part of the business landscape, we want to take a thoughtful and responsible approach that helps us remain a frontrunner while protecting the values that have shaped the group over generations. Working with Luton AI will help us understand where AI can support our teams, improve processes and strengthen how we use information across the group."

The collaboration builds on Luton AI's growing portfolio of partnerships with organisations across business, public services and the civic sector, reinforcing the University of Bedfordshire's commitment to supporting innovation, workforce development and the responsible adoption of emerging technologies.

To find out more about Luton AI and how they could help your business, visit: https://www.luton.ai/