New research from The Access Group reveals that 35 percent of UK workers admit to using generative AI for tasks they were assigned – but did not inform their managers.
Younger employees, particularly those aged 18-29, are more likely to use AI covertly, with 55 percent admitting to this practice. Over a quarter (26 percent) of this age group said they had done so “many times”. In contrast, only 14 percent of employees over 60 acknowledged similar behaviour.
The research, detailed in The Access Group’s AI at Work report, highlights the transformative effects of generative AI in the workplace. Of the workers surveyed, 59 percent reported experiencing reduced stress when AI tools were available.
The Rise of Generative AI in the Workplace
The survey, which included 1,134 employees from 12 industries, found that AI adoption is highest in the technology (74%) and finance (68%) sectors. Meanwhile, health, social care, and the public sector are catching up, with 45 percent of workers in these industries reporting the use of AI tools.
AI is also viewed as a driver of improved work quality. Across all industries, 82 percent of respondents agreed that AI helps them produce better outcomes. However, AI adoption comes with challenges: data security is a key concern, with nearly half of respondents identifying it as a critical issue.
Dr Phil Parker, a health & happiness expert, said, “AI could free us for more leisure time, take care of annoying mundane tasks or give teams time to connect and support each other on a more human level.
“For people who are neurodiverse or suffering from anxiety, AI could be a gift. It could take over tasks that overwhelm us and be easily trained to support our differing needs, be tailored to the best way to communicate with us and, research has shown, has the benefit of being free of the judgement or opinions some humans bring.
“AI will be a feature of all our futures. Employers can best help staff feel part of this future through open and effective communication about both the benefits and other changes these advances will bring.”
Gender and Generational Gaps in AI Confidence
Confidence in using AI tools varies significantly across gender and generational lines. Men were twice as likely as women to rate their AI confidence as 10 out of 10 (4 percent vs. 2 percent). Conversely, 3.3 percent of women rated their confidence at the lowest level (1 out of 10), compared to 2.4 percent of men.
Generational disparities were also stark. Among Gen-Z workers (18-24 years old), 11 percent rated themselves as highly confident with AI, almost double the 6 percent seen in Gen-X employees (45-59 years old). Confidence dropped further among employees over 60, with only 2 percent rating themselves as highly proficient.
AI’s impact on workplace efficiency is evident, with over half of respondents (55 percent) reporting time savings through automation of repetitive tasks such as data analysis and customer support. Additionally, 42 percent believe AI helps save money for their organisations.
As generative AI becomes increasingly embedded in the workplace, organisations will need to navigate its potential benefits while addressing gaps in confidence, understanding, and secure application.
Marko Perisic, Chief Product and Engineering Officer at The Access Group said, “The research underscores our view that employees see AI not just as a tool but as a game-changer, enabling them to shift their focus to more meaningful, human-centred tasks. By automating routine and administrative functions, AI frees up time for employees to engage in creative and strategic work, fostering both personal fulfilment and workplace innovation.
“This is why AI integration is so transformative—it enhances workflows, boosts efficiency, and reduces the fear of falling behind in an ever-evolving tech landscape. The findings make it clear: AI is not just reshaping how we work, it’s redefining what we can achieve.”
Alessandra Pacelli is a journalist and author contributing to HRreview, where she covers topics including labour market trends, employment costs, and workplace issues.
- Alessandra Pacelli
- Alessandra Pacelli
- Alessandra Pacelli
- Alessandra Pacelli
