Workforce recruitment and retention
Workforce is THE critical factor in the delivery of diagnostic imaging services. PenRAD has worked collaboratively with trusts as one of its key priorities - to secure the workforce of tomorrow.
The challenge
Based on the NHS England national imaging workforce data collection, PenRAD has estimated that the peninsula faces a potential clinical workforce shortfall of around 48 Radiologists and 180-200 full-time equivalent (FTE) Radiographers by 2029/30.
There are already 136 FTE vacancies in the system, which includes 72 FTE Radiographers or 11% of the funded establishment. Community Diagnostic Centres (CDCs) are also recruiting clinical staff, which inevitably impacts local trust staffing.
Meanwhile, demand is increasing with a 5% rise in activity in 2025/26 compared to the previous year.
Our approach
The demographics across the peninsula’s rural and coastal geography has focused our efforts on a 'grow your own' workforce model alongside a region-wide recruitment campaign, together with the West of England Imaging Network, targeting year 3 student radiographers.
An outreach programme has been established to promote diagnostic careers to young people in schools and colleges and through dedicated ‘Discover Diagnostics’ health careers events.
The network works closely with the SW Imaging Training Academy (SWITA) to optimise training and education funding for apprenticeships, postgraduate modules and qualifications.
We have also launched an Imaging Support Worker Network to engage with staff in existing roles to improve training and progression opportunities, which should in turn lead to increased job satisfaction and better staff retention.
Impact and benefits
2,465 students engaged from 61 schools and colleges
A more joined-up approach has reduced the need for trusts to release staff to facilitate as many school and college careers events. South-West universities reported a high number of applications for Radiography degrees in Autumn 2025, with no clearing places offered.
The joint #SWRadLife recruitment campaign with West of England Imaging Network was funded by NHS England. In 2025, it engaged with 52 radiography graduates, and included creating a series of films and webinars showcasing the benefits and day-to-day experience of working in the South-West, resulting in an increase in applicants for radiography posts.
I just wanted to say a huge thank you for delivering such an engaging talk to our students. It had real impact and was well-received.
Falmouth School
Next steps
PenRAD is working to maintain school and student interest post-exams, and planning for the 2026/27 ‘Discover Diagnostics’ programme.
Building on our learning from last year, we are preparing another university-focused recruitment campaign for the autumn term/semester, once again aimed specifically at year 3 students.
The Support Worker Network is gathering momentum and this will provide an exciting area of development over the next year, offering regular meetings and career development support.