In the sterile corridors of Birmingham Women's and Children's NHS Foundation Trust, a young man named James Stokes navigates his daily responsibilities with subtle confidence. His polished footwear whisper against the floor as he greets colleagues—some by name, others with the familiar currency of a "hello there."

James carries his identification not merely as institutional identification but as a declaration of belonging. It sits against a neatly presented outfit that gives no indication of the difficult path that led him to this place.

What separates James from many of his colleagues is not immediately apparent. His presence gives away nothing of the fact that he was among the first beneficiaries of the NHS Universal Family Programme—an effort crafted intentionally for young people who have experienced life in local authority care.

"It felt like the NHS was putting its arm around me," James explains, his voice controlled but revealing subtle passion. His statement encapsulates the heart of a programme that seeks to transform how the massive healthcare system views care leavers—those often overlooked young people aged 16-25 who have emerged from the care system.

The statistics tell a troubling story. Care leavers frequently encounter higher rates of mental health issues, financial instability, housing precarity, and diminished educational achievements compared to their peers. Behind these cold statistics are individual journeys of young people who have maneuvered through a system that, despite best intentions, frequently fails in delivering the supportive foundation that molds most young lives.

The NHS Universal Family Programme, established in January 2023 following NHS England's promise to the Care Leaver Covenant, embodies a profound shift in systemic approach. At its core, it recognizes that the whole state and civil society should function as a "communal support system" for those who haven't known the stability of a typical domestic environment.

Ten pathfinder integrated care boards across England have led the way, developing systems that rethink how the NHS—one of Europe's largest employers—can extend opportunities to care leavers.

The Programme is thorough in its approach, beginning with comprehensive audits of existing policies, creating management frameworks, and securing senior buy-in. It acknowledges that effective inclusion requires more than good intentions—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 provide support, advice, and guidance on mental health, HR matters, recruitment, and EDI initiatives.

The traditional NHS recruitment process—structured and possibly overwhelming—has been carefully modified. Job advertisements now emphasize attitudinal traits rather than numerous requirements. Applications have been reconsidered to address the specific obstacles care leavers might face—from lacking professional references to facing barriers to internet access.

Maybe most importantly, the Programme acknowledges that entering the workforce can present unique challenges for care leavers who may be handling self-sufficiency without the backup of parental assistance. Concerns like transportation costs, personal documentation, and financial services—considered standard by many—can become major obstacles.

The elegance of the Programme lies in its attention to detail—from clarifying salary details to providing transportation assistance until that essential first wage disbursement. Even seemingly minor aspects like rest periods and office etiquette are carefully explained.

For James, whose NHS journey has "transformed" his life, the Programme provided more than work. It offered him a perception of inclusion—that intangible quality that emerges when someone is appreciated not despite their background but because their particular journey improves the workplace.

"Working for the NHS isn't just about doctors and nurses," James comments, his eyes reflecting the quiet pride of someone who has secured his position. "It's about a family of different jobs and roles, a team of people who truly matter."

The NHS Universal Family Programme embodies more than an job scheme. It stands as a strong assertion that systems can evolve to welcome those who have known different challenges. In doing so, they not only transform individual lives but enhance their operations through the unique perspectives that care leavers provide.

As James walks the corridors, his involvement silently testifies that with the right support, care leavers can flourish in environments once considered beyond reach. The support that the NHS has extended through this Programme symbolizes not charity but recognition of hidden abilities and the essential fact that each individual warrants a community that believes in them.