Almost a third of UK employees are already using artificial intelligence (AI) at work, with 10% relying on it for significant parts of their job, new figures show. But more than a third (37%) remain uncomfortable with AI, underscoring a widening divide in attitudes towards the technology.
As AI tools become more widely available, organisations face increasing pressure to implement policies that ensure their responsible use.
A study by LawDeb, an independent professional services firm, surveyed 2,008 UK employees and found that men are more likely to use AI than women. While 34% of men report using AI in their work, only 25% of women do the same. The gap widens in more intensive AI usage, with 14% of men relying on it for large parts of their role, compared to 7% of women.
Age is also a key factor. The 25-34 age group is the most comfortable with AI, with 62% expressing confidence in using it. This may explain why London, which has a younger median age than other UK regions (35.9 years), is the most AI-positive area, with 59% of workers supporting AI adoption.
AI usage is also more common among senior professionals. While only a small percentage of junior employees regularly use AI, 27% of C-suite executives and 23% of senior managers rely on it for large parts of their job.
What’s Stopping Wider AI Adoption?
Despite AI’s growing influence in the workplace, a significant portion of the UK workforce remains hesitant. The most common reasons for reluctance include:
- Lack of knowledge – 19% say they do not know how to use AI
- Ethical concerns – 14% worry about AI’s implications
- Fear of consequences – 6% believe they could get in trouble for using it
And while younger employees are generally more open to AI, they’re also the most likely to reject it on ethical grounds. Among employees under 35, 19% cite ethical concerns as a reason for avoiding AI.
AI’s Growing Role in Industry
Beyond individual workplaces, AI adoption is shaping entire industries. The legal sector, for example, is experiencing rapid transformation due to generative AI. While firms are exploring AI’s ability to improve efficiency, success depends on careful integration, robust training and managing risks such as data security and compliance.
The consulting sector is also undergoing a shift, with 67% of firms expecting AI to be their biggest growth driver over the next three years. Businesses are increasingly seeking advisory services on AI, particularly in areas such as data management, cloud computing, cybersecurity and risk assessment.
But a recent survey suggests that while major tech companies are investing heavily in AI, many employees remain hesitant. In the US, for example, only 18% of workers report using AI regularly, despite billions being poured into AI development.
Why Companies Need AI Policies Now
Patrick Davis, Head of UK Corporate Secretarial Services at LawDeb, warned that organisations must take a proactive approach to AI governance.
“The future of AI in the workplace is inevitable, whether usage is personal or professional, or the extent is small or large,” he said. “In light of this, it is the responsibility of boards and their technology, cyber, risk and governance teams to provide guidance and policies for how to navigate this use in a way that maintains integrity and creativity for both individuals and companies within a secure systems work environment.”
Without clear guidance, employees risk navigating AI adoption without understanding its ethical, regulatory, and legal implications, Davis said. Companies that fail to provide oversight could face compliance risks, security breaches, and reputational damage, he added.
The Future of AI at Work
As AI continues to evolve, its role in the workplace is set to expand. Whether employees embrace or resist this shift, businesses must ensure clear policies, proper training, and a framework that balances innovation with ethical considerations.
For those who remain hesitant about AI, education and guidance may be key to increasing confidence and ensuring that employees can harness the technology safely and effectively.