New online tool will help visitors to council website

New online tool will help visitors to council website

A new online tool to help visitors to Inverclyde Council's website get information quickly, easily and at any time, has been launched.

The AI chatbot - Clyde - will ask visitors to the website if they need help to find the information they are looking for on the site.

Through a series of simple questions, Clyde will be able to direct people to the correct area of the website.

It is hoped that Clyde will improve the service offered to residents, reduce costs, and improve staff productivity by freeing up contact centre staff to work on more complex duties. Data from the chatbot will also help the council understand common issues and questions and inform future service improvements.

It will also increase accessibility and inclusivity by offering multilingual support as well as text or voice interaction options.

The investment in the chatbot is part of the council's commitment to the digital transformation of public services. The service will offer many benefits whilst embracing technology to create positive change.

As well as answering questions from users, Clyde will also guide customers to online 'report it' forms for issues including abandoned vehicles, fly tipping, graffiti, pet fouling, potholes, blocked drains/flooding and vandalism.

Inverclyde Council leader, Councillor Stephen McCabe, said:

"Inverclyde Council's website is a mine of information about the many services provided by the council and Health and Social Care Partnership.

"Clyde will help people navigate the website to find the information they need quickly and easily.

"It is there to be used 24/7 and the customer contact centre is also available during office hours should anyone need more help or information.

"This is another step in our digital modernisation journey and I'm happy to welcome Clyde to Inverclyde Council."

Page last updated: 13 March 2026