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DXA scanning machines investment will support ‘faster, more accurate’ diagnosis
A DXA scanner by Dizfoto, via Getty Images
A DXA scanner by Dizfoto, via Getty Images
The government has announced funding for 20 DXA bone scanners for 2026, to support the diagnosis of osteoporosis and other bone conditions across England.
Six additional scanners will expand capacity in trusts across the country, and 14 replacement machines will be brought in to modernise outdated equipment with improved image quality.
While the SoR welcomes the £2.6 million investment and the role these scanners will play in strengthening bone health services, it warned that meaningful impact requires sustained support for the radiography workforce, whose expertise is “critical” to safe, effective delivery.
SoR president, Katie Thompson, said: “The Society of Radiographers welcomes the government’s investment in 20 new DXA scanners, recognising the important role this will play in strengthening bone health services and supporting faster, more accurate diagnosis across England.
“However, achieving meaningful impact requires more than new equipment. To ensure this investment delivers its full benefit, it must be accompanied by sustained support for the radiography workforce.”
SoR joins campaign to support flexible working for NHS staff
Leandre Archer, head of Industrial Relations and Membership at the SoR, by Eva Slusarek
Leandre Archer, head of Industrial Relations and Membership at the SoR, by Eva Slusarek
The SoR has joined a coalition of 18 unions, representing every part of the NHS workforce, in sending an open letter to employers seeking commitment to supporting flexible working for staff.
Access to flexible working offers an opportunity to attract, retain and support staff, according to the #TalkAboutFlex campaign, while a lack of flexibility can drive out staff who would otherwise stay.
At present, all NHS workers have the right to request flexible working from day one of employment and to make unlimited requests without providing a reason, but all too often, accessing the flexibility they need is a struggle for staff, including those with childcare and other family commitments. The inconsistent approach by employers has created a postcode lottery across the NHS.
Employers are being invited to sign the Get Ahead on Flex pledge and commit to key actions.
Union reps across the UK will be sending letters to their CEOs asking them to commit to the pledge. Reps who would like to get involved can find more information on the website’s reps page. To join the campaign as an employer, visit the employer’s page.
Find out more and support the campaign online here.
Joint trade unions send letter of frustration over pay award
Dean Rogers, executive director of Industrial Strategy at the SoR, by Eva Slusarek
Dean Rogers, executive director of Industrial Strategy at the SoR, by Eva Slusarek
The SoR and other trade unions have shared a joint open letter to the Secretary of State for Health expressing their frustration at the 3.3 per cent pay award.
Members in England are being encouraged to sign the joint open letter, which is supported by all Agenda for Change (AfC) trade unions and professional associations, and is addressed to Wes Streeting, Secretary of State for Health and Social Care.
Although no formal consultation on the award has taken place, feedback from members and reps has demonstrated a high level of frustration at another disappointing pay award.
The joint letter focuses on the government’s failure to engage and lead negotiations to reform the AfC pay structures, which were promised throughout 2025/26.
Dean Rogers, director of industrial strategy at the SoR, said: “Any changes to the AfC pay structures will need additional funding and should happen outside any Pay Review Body process. These now need to progress quickly and in full partnership with all the unions. We will formally consult members on the outcome of any negotiations that follow around AfC structural reforms.”
Full UKIO 2026 programme is now live
Exhibition floor at UKIO 2025, by Eva Slusarek
Exhibition floor at UKIO 2025, by Eva Slusarek
The UK Imaging and Oncology (UKIO) Congress has released its full conference programme, promising a range of multidisciplinary sessions, plenaries and discussions.
UKIO is an annual conference that presents cutting-edge content designed for a multidisciplinary audience spanning diagnostic imaging, oncology and radiological sciences. As well as this, UKIO runs a professional exhibition that features pioneering equipment, services and technology.
The 2026 congress will take place from 8-10 June at the ACC Liverpool. This year’s theme is ‘Putting humanity at the centre of healthcare: In the age of the machine’, emphasising the industry’s aim to keep humanity at the core of radiological treatment.
The 2026 UKIO programme outlines the full range of events happening over the two-day conference.
Along with dedicated plenaries and parallel sessions, the lineup also includes the usual dedicated sessions for students and trainees, as well as workshops, curated sessions in collaboration with industry partners and a wellbeing programme.
Access the full UKIO 2026 programme here. Registration is now open.
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