Within the bustling halls of an NHS hospital in Birmingham, 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 universal currency of a "hello there."

James displays his credentials not merely as institutional identification but as a testament of acceptance. It hangs against a pressed shirt that offers no clue of the challenging road that led him to this place.

What sets apart 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 participants of the NHS Universal Family Programme—an undertaking crafted intentionally for young people who have spent time in care.

"I found genuine support within the NHS structure," James reflects, his voice measured but carrying undertones of feeling. His remark summarizes the essence of a programme that seeks to reinvent how the enormous healthcare system views care leavers—those often overlooked young people aged 16-25 who have transitioned from the care system.

The numbers paint a stark picture. Care leavers often face higher rates of mental health issues, economic uncertainty, shelter insecurities, and diminished educational achievements compared to their contemporaries. Underlying these cold statistics are human stories of young people who have navigated a system that, despite good efforts, often falls short in delivering the stable base that forms most young lives.

The NHS Universal Family Programme, initiated in January 2023 following NHS England's pledge to the Care Leaver Covenant, embodies a profound shift in systemic approach. Fundamentally, it accepts that the complete state and civil society should function as a "universal family" for those who haven't experienced the security of a typical domestic environment.

Ten pathfinder integrated care boards across England have charted the course, creating systems that reimagine how the NHS—one of Europe's largest employers—can extend opportunities to care leavers.

The Programme is detailed in its approach, beginning with thorough assessments of existing policies, establishing management frameworks, and securing leadership support. It recognizes that meaningful participation requires more than lofty goals—it demands practical measures.

In NHS Birmingham and Solihull ICB, where James began his journey, they've created a consistent support system with representatives who can deliver help and direction on mental health, HR matters, recruitment, and EDI initiatives.

The traditional NHS recruitment process—formal and possibly overwhelming—has been carefully modified. Job advertisements now highlight attitudinal traits rather than numerous requirements. Applications have been reconsidered to address the particular difficulties care leavers might face—from lacking professional references to struggling with internet access.

Possibly most crucially, the Programme understands that beginning employment can create specific difficulties for care leavers who may be navigating autonomy without the backup of family resources. Issues like commuting fees, proper ID, and banking arrangements—assumed basic by many—can become major obstacles.

The beauty of the Programme lies in its thorough planning—from explaining payslip deductions to providing transportation assistance until that critical first wage disbursement. Even ostensibly trivial elements like rest periods and office etiquette are thoughtfully covered.

For James, whose NHS journey has "revolutionized" his life, the Programme provided more than employment. It gave him a perception of inclusion—that elusive quality that develops when someone feels valued not despite their past but because their unique life experiences enriches the institution.

"Working for the NHS isn't just about doctors and nurses," James notes, his eyes reflecting the quiet pride of someone who has discovered belonging. "It's about a community of different jobs and roles, a family of people who genuinely care."

The NHS Universal Family Programme embodies more than an job scheme. It functions as a strong assertion that institutions can adapt to include those who have known different challenges. In doing so, they not only alter individual futures but improve their services through the distinct viewpoints that care leavers bring to the table.

As James navigates his workplace, his participation quietly demonstrates that with the right support, care leavers can flourish in environments once thought inaccessible. The embrace that the NHS has provided through this Programme represents not charity but appreciation of overlooked talent and the fundamental reality that everyone deserves a family that champions their success.