The State of AI in HR 2026

Insights from 188 HR Professionals Across the UK and Beyond

We surveyed 188 HR professionals across the UK and beyond to find out where their teams really stand on AI, not where they say they'd like to be, but where they actually are today. This report equips HR professionals with the latest data, real quotes from the field, and a clear path forward for building AI capability the right way.

Covering:

• The Confidence Gap: 72% of HR professionals use AI tools at least a few times a week outside of work, yet only 17% describe themselves as confident, advanced users of AI at work.
• The Maturity Gap: 64% of HR teams are still at the earliest stages of AI adoption, yet 59% want to reach embedded or transforming capability within just 12 months.
• The Governance Blocker: 63% of organisations have no formal AI policy. Discover why data privacy, not budget, is the single biggest barrier to progress.
• What HR Teams Actually Want to Learn: Real, unprompted responses from HR professionals on the AI skills they're missing most.

Gain expert insights, real data, and a practical roadmap to help your HR team close the gap between ambition and capability.

About Avado

Avado is a leading provider of CIPD qualifications in the UK and Middle East. For over a decade, we have partnered with the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) to empower HR and L&D professionals to excel in their careers. With a proven track record, Avado has guided over 50,000 learners towards their professional goals, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to develop and grow.​