The role of radiation protection societies in tackling the skills shortage and development of young professionals and researchers

Over the last 10 years there have been increasing concerns raised about a potential skills gap in the field of radiation protection (RP). Noting these concerns in 2019, the Society for Radiological Protection, the UK's Chartered Professional Body, launched a study to determine the RP demand in the UK going forward along with the capacity of the profession. The initial results show that over 50% of the SRP membership retires in the next 10-15 years, coupled with an increase in RP demand across the nuclear fuel cycle, medical sector and advancement of new technologies or applications requiring RP advice. This provides strong evidence supporting the concerns of a future skills gap. This paper presents a framework highlighting three core objectives that need to be met to resolve the skills gap. A review of the existing initiatives being undertaken by the Society of Radiological Protection to meet these objectives is included, identifying both areas of good practice and areas for further work and development. A key theme in tackling this challenge has been identified as the need to foster greater collaboration between RP professionals, and organizations both within the UK and abroad, such as IRPA, national societies, employers, academia and industry. This brings a unique opportunity to direct efforts and resources toward a common goal, allowing the sharing of good practice, whilst reducing the strain and burden on any one organization. Another key output of the review was the need to embrace new and innovative solutions to developing our profession and importantly inspiring and communicating into the future of the profession.