How was it for you? : What factors influence job satisfaction for band 5 and 6 therapeutic radiographers

Effective recruitment, retention and development of the existing workforce will become increasingly important as cancer incidence increases, patient numbers increase, and challenging targets are set to deliver world class radiotherapy in the UK. This study aimed to explore the experiences of therapy radiographers working at band five and six with specific reference to job satisfaction. The key objectives were:

1. To explore and understand the experiences of Therapeutic Radiographers from graduation to their first senior/supervisory position.

2. To identify the factors that influence perceptions of job satisfaction.

3. To suggest supportive strategies which could lead to increased job satisfaction?

Method: A qualitative case study approach using focus groups was adopted to explore the professional experience of therapeutic radiographers in two large departments. Thematic analysis was used to identify categories and themes, which informed the development of a framework that identified factors that influence job satisfaction.

Results and discussion: The participants identified diverse but interlinking facets that influence job satisfaction. The core theme was continuous professional development and subthemes were; organisation issues, transition into role, workload and teamwork. Job satisfaction appears to be multifaceted and is dependent on the individual, context of work and the working environment.

Conclusion: Significant factors which impact on job satisfaction for band 5 and 6 therapy radiographers have been identified. It would appear that these could be positively influenced by managers and organisations. Further insight into the professional experiences of therapeutic radiographers is needed with specific reference to preceptorship/mentoring, staff appraisals and career aspirations/expectations. This insight would be valuable to inform future retention and development strategies.