ESCB Training - AI Companion (chatbots)- Monday 19 January 2026, 12pm- 1pm (virtual)

Closes 15 Jan 2026

Opened 1 Apr 2020

Overview

Please ensure you have read the ESCB Charging and Cancellation policy before completing this application, as non-attendance or late-notice cancellation will result in a charge. 

Target audience: anyone working with children and families in Essex

Learning outcomes: This course will cover the key points about AI companions (chatbots)

  • AI companions are designed for use by adults not young people,hence why they often have sexual content / material
  • A risk assessment of popular AI companion platforms, found that these systems pose "unacceptable risks" for users under 18,
  • AI companions reflect the user back on themselves (so if the user feels depressed, anxious, suicidal then the AI will reflect this and escalate / magnify the feeling

This is a virtual training course and delegates will be sent an invitation via Microsoft Teams to join the event. Please note that your email address may be visible to other delegates on the Microsoft Teams invite.

Areas

  • Basildon
  • Braintree
  • Brentwood
  • Chelmsford
  • Colchester
  • Epping Forest
  • Harlow
  • Maldon
  • Rochford
  • Tendring
  • Uttlesford

Audiences

  • Anyone from any background

Interests

  • Support for children