As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly embedded across the NHS, we helped shape a critical conversation about what the successful adoption of non-clinical AI and ambient voice technologies means for the workforce. 

Working with partners across London’s Health Innovation Networks, we developed Beyond Productivity: AI and NHS Workforce Implications, a report commissioned by NHS England London Region. 

Drawing on published evidence and insights from NHS leaders, clinicians, operational teams and workforce representatives, the report challenged the assumption that AI simply reduces workload. Instead, it highlighted how AI is changing the nature of work, creating new responsibilities around oversight, validation, accountability and professional judgement. The findings demonstrated that workforce planning, governance and capability development must evolve alongside technological change, while processes and workflows need to be redesigned to reflect AI-enabled ways of working.  

Through this work, UCLPartners has championed a workforce-centred approach to responsible AI adoption. The report’s recommendations on governance, workforce development and shared learning offer practical actions to help organisations move from fragmented experimentation to more coordinated, sustainable and equitable AI-enabled transformation across the health system.