UK Radiotherapy Workforce Census Results Released

In November 2023, the Institute of Physics and Engineering in Medicine (IPEM) undertook a census of the UK’s Radiotherapy workforce.

All Radiotherapy centres across the UK were invited to take part. Ninety-three percent responded. 

This work showed that 8% of Radiotherapy posts are vacant, and that there are not enough established posts to support safe and effective services across the UK.

There are more than 2000 staff working in radiotherapy in the UK. The number of established posts has increased by around 5% since 2021. However, vacancy rates remain high for Clinical Scientists, and Clinical Technologists in Physics and Engineering. Comparisons with IPEM’s Radiotherapy Staffing Calculator show that the number of staff in post must increase overall by 20% in order for safe and effective services to be delivered.  

Based on these findings, IPEM recommends the following: 

• Increase trainee output: this can be achieved with higher funding for training programmes and trainee posts, improved outreach about the career, and improved support for regional training solutions. 

• Increase support for career progression. 

• Increase non-Clinical Scientist/Clinical Technologist posts that can strategically ease pressures on these staff groups. 

Members can download the full census report here