New Helm survey reveals hiring freezes and job cut fears as AI adoption accelerates
The UK workforce is not prepared for AI, according to 93% of scale-up founders surveyed by Helm.
New data from the UK’s largest network for scale-up CEOs shows deep concern about whether workers are ready for widespread artificial intelligence adoption.
The findings highlight a growing gap between political AI ambition and business reality.
UK Workforce Not Prepared for AI, Say Founders
In a snap poll conducted between February 5 and 6, 400 founders were asked whether the UK workforce is adequately prepared for AI adoption.
93% said no
3.5% said yes
3.5% said don’t know
The average Helm member runs a business with £21 million in annual turnover. Combined revenue across respondents exceeds £8 billion.
For these leaders, AI adoption is not theoretical. It is already influencing hiring decisions.
AI Hiring Freeze and Job Cut Expectations
The survey found AI is directly reshaping recruitment plans.
58% are delaying or reducing new hires because of AI
33% expect AI-driven job cuts within 12 months
64% do not yet expect redundancies
The data suggests that concerns about the UK workforce not being prepared for AI are now translating into real-world employment decisions.
Automation vs Augmentation
Andreas Adamides, CEO of Helm, said the focus should shift from job losses to productivity gains.
“AI is forcing business leaders to make some difficult decisions about jobs and hiring. Many founders are under pressure to move fast, stay competitive, and rethink roles as automation accelerates.
“The bigger opportunity now is to upskill workers for higher-value roles and use AI to drive sustainable growth.”
Joshua Wöhle, founder of Mindstone, added that the UK risks focusing too heavily on automation rather than augmentation.
“Automation leads to job losses versus augmentation that moves the top line. Ultimately, this comes down to training.”
Is the UK Workforce Ready for AI?
With AI adoption accelerating across British businesses, the question of whether the UK workforce is prepared for AI is becoming urgent.
Founders are already adjusting hiring plans.
Without significant upskilling, the gap between AI ambition and workforce readiness could widen further.
