INDUSTRY GOV. TECH

ew national research conducted by

ICS. AI has revealed strong public support for the use of Artificial Intelligence to improve outcomes in public services, particularly at a time when demand, cost pressures and access challenges continue to rise.

The survey of 2,000 UK residents found that nearly half of respondents( 47 %) believe AI will improve services for residents, while 60 % say it will enhance accessibility. Reflecting growing expectations around speed and efficiency, 45 % say they would prefer AI-driven services that deliver faster outcomes rather than waiting for traditional, human-led services.

However, the research shows that public support for AI is conditional. When asked what should matter most for UK investment in AI, the largest share of respondents( 47 %) prioritised tight regulation and trustworthiness. This compares with 24 % who want AI to be developed and controlled in the UK and a further 24 % who prioritise affordability and effectiveness, regardless of where the technology originates.

Widespread AI use

For residents’ home and work lives, AI adoption is already widespread. More than three-quarters of UK residents( 78 %) say they regularly use AI both at home and at work, with many reporting feelings of excitement rather than fear.

What’ s striking is how clearly the public can see AI’ s potential to improve public services and accessibility.

Looking ahead to the coming year, the most common outlook on AI is curiosity( 41 %), followed by optimism, with 22 % saying they are happy and expect AI to help them considerably. However, concern remains, with 26 % saying they feel stressed about the potential for AI to take away jobs.

Martin Neale, CEO and Founder at ICS. AI, said:“ AI is already a part of everyday life for most people, with more than three-quarters regularly using it at home and at work. What’ s striking is how clearly the public can see AI’ s potential to improve public services and accessibility. But that support isn’ t unconditional. People want progress, but they also want reassurance – with trust, regulation and accountability a clear requirement for the public.”

The findings point to a pragmatic public that is ready to embrace AI’ s benefits where it is deployed responsibly and in ways that directly improve everyday experiences.

44 WWW. INTELLIGENTCISO. COM