A survey by researchers from Cardiff University, UCL, Oxford’s Nuffield College, and the University of Surrey has shed light on the extent of workplace abuse and growing inequality in UK working conditions.
The Skills and Employment Survey found that one in seven UK workers has faced abuse such as bullying, violence, or sexual harassment. Areas where the risk is particularly high include nursing (32%) and teaching (28%), and among women and night shift workers.
The survey also explored the use of artificial intelligence at work. 24% of those surveyed say they use AI, however, its benefits are largely confined to high-skilled, high-paid roles, often held by younger, male, and degree-educated workers.
Despite an increasing demand for degree-level skills, the number of workers holding such qualifications has dipped slightly.
It is clear from the survey that attitudes toward trade unions are shifting, with over a third of workers in non-unionised workplaces expressing support for unionisation.
The researchers raised concerns about inequities in remote working, pointing out that not everyone has the financial means or living space to set up a proper home office. Over half of workers surveyed are using spaces intended for other purposes to carry out their work. They argue that policy should encourage a broader range of flexible working options, not just working from home, to help level the playing field.
