In the sterile corridors of Birmingham Women's and Children's NHS Foundation Trust, a young man named James Stokes moves with quiet purpose. His polished footwear barely make a sound as he greets colleagues—some by name, others with the familiar currency of a "hello there."

James wears his NHS lanyard not merely as a security requirement but as a symbol of belonging. It rests against a pressed shirt that gives no indication of the tumultuous journey that brought him here.

What separates James from many of his colleagues is not obvious to the casual observer. His demeanor discloses nothing of the fact that he was among the first beneficiaries of the NHS Universal Family Programme—an undertaking crafted intentionally for young people who have spent time in care.

"It felt like the NHS was putting its arm around me," James explains, his voice steady but carrying undertones of feeling. His statement summarizes the heart of a programme that seeks to reinvent how the massive healthcare system perceives care leavers—those vulnerable young people aged 16-25 who have graduated out of the care system.

The numbers tell a troubling story. Care leavers frequently encounter poorer mental health outcomes, economic uncertainty, shelter insecurities, and lower academic success compared to their age-mates. Behind these clinical numbers are personal narratives of young people who have navigated a system that, despite genuine attempts, regularly misses the mark in offering the supportive foundation that shapes most young lives.

The NHS Universal Family Programme, launched in January 2023 following NHS England's commitment to the Care Leaver Covenant, signifies a significant change in organizational perspective. Fundamentally, it recognizes that the whole state and civil society should function as a "universal family" for those who haven't experienced the stability of a typical domestic environment.

Ten pioneering healthcare collectives across England have led the way, developing systems that reimagine how the NHS—one of Europe's largest employers—can open its doors to care leavers.

The Programme is meticulous in its methodology, beginning with comprehensive audits of existing practices, creating governance structures, and garnering leadership support. It acknowledges that successful integration requires more than lofty goals—it demands practical measures.

In NHS Birmingham and Solihull ICB, where James found his footing, they've developed a consistent support system with representatives who can offer assistance and counsel on personal welfare, HR matters, recruitment, and equality, diversity, and inclusion.

The standard NHS recruitment process—formal and often daunting—has been intentionally adjusted. Job advertisements now highlight attitudinal traits rather than numerous requirements. Applications have been reconsidered to accommodate the unique challenges care leavers might encounter—from missing employment history to struggling with internet access.

Perhaps most significantly, the Programme understands that starting a job can pose particular problems for care leavers who may be navigating autonomy without the safety net of family resources. Matters like travel expenses, personal documentation, and bank accounts—taken for granted by many—can become substantial hurdles.

The brilliance of the Programme lies in its meticulous consideration—from outlining compensation information to helping with commuting costs until that critical first wage disbursement. Even seemingly minor aspects like coffee breaks and office etiquette are carefully explained.

For James, whose NHS journey has "revolutionized" his life, the Programme provided more than work. It gave him a perception of inclusion—that ineffable quality that grows when someone senses worth not despite their history but because their distinct perspective enriches the workplace.

"Working for the NHS isn't just about doctors and nurses," James notes, his eyes reflecting the quiet pride of someone who has found his place. "It's about a collective of different jobs and roles, a group of people who really connect."

The NHS Universal Family Programme exemplifies more than an work program. It exists as a bold declaration that institutions can change to embrace those who have known different challenges. In doing so, they not only change personal trajectories but enhance their operations through the unique perspectives that care leavers provide.

As James walks the corridors, his participation quietly demonstrates that with the right assistance, care leavers can succeed in environments once deemed unattainable. The embrace that the NHS has offered through this Programme signifies not charity but appreciation of overlooked talent and the essential fact that everyone deserves a family that supports their growth.