TY - JOUR T1 - Addressing recruitment and retention in paediatrics: a pipeline to a brighter future JF - Archives of disease in childhood - Education & practice edition JO - Arch Dis Child Educ Pract Ed SP - 57 LP - 63 DO - 10.1136/archdischild-2020-319696 VL - 107 IS - 1 AU - Peter Mallett AU - Andrew Thompson AU - Thomas Bourke Y1 - 2022/02/01 UR - http://ep.bmj.com/content/107/1/57.abstract N2 - Background In the UK, the number of junior doctors completing foundation programme, and the number of trainees applying to paediatrics has been in decline in recent years. The NHS is at ‘breaking point’, exacerbated by workforce shortages, chronic underfunding, increasing service demand and poor job satisfaction within healthcare workers. Issues in recruitment and retention of paediatricians ‘threaten the safety of our children’s health’, according to the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health.Aim To explore what strategies have been described in the literature to enhance recruitment and retention in paediatrics.Methods A scoping review methodology was conducted, employing a qualitative approach to review the literature. The studies included were English-language studies. 16 full-text articles were reviewed and analysed.Study findings There is a paucity of data in the literature that describes evidence-based approaches to enhancing retention and recruitment in paediatrics. The most important strategies employed to help are identified and grouped into six main themes. These include professional advocacy, workforce diversity, mentorship, improving working conditions, career flexibility and enhancing educational opportunities. The authors have created a ‘paediatric pipeline’ paradigm of ‘identify, engage, recruit, retain and champion’, which allow us to present these themes in a pragmatic way for paediatricians and policymakers.Conclusions While some issues share similarities with other specialties in difficulty, much of the context and potential remedies within paediatrics are distinct. A strategic, multi-agency collaborative approach is required urgently to address the significant issues that face both paediatrics and the healthcare system.All data relevant to the study are included in the article or uploaded as supplementary information. Not applicable. ER -