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 oxford shoes whisper against the floor as he greets colleagues—some by name, others with the familiar currency of a "good morning."

James wears his NHS lanyard not merely as a security requirement but as a testament of belonging. It hangs against a neatly presented outfit that offers no clue of the difficult path that led him to this place.

What sets apart James from many of his colleagues is not obvious to the casual observer. His bearing gives away nothing of the fact that he was among the first participants of the NHS Universal Family Programme—an effort created purposefully for young people who have experienced life in local authority care.

"The Programme embraced me when I needed it most," James reflects, his voice steady but revealing subtle passion. His remark captures the core of a programme that seeks to revolutionize how the vast healthcare system views care leavers—those vulnerable young people aged 16-25 who have emerged from the care system.

The statistics tell a troubling story. Care leavers often face poorer mental health outcomes, money troubles, accommodation difficulties, and reduced scholarly attainment compared to their peers. Beneath these impersonal figures are human stories of young people who have navigated a system that, despite good efforts, often falls short in offering the stable base that molds most young lives.

The NHS Universal Family Programme, launched in January 2023 following NHS England's commitment to the Care Leaver Covenant, represents a substantial transformation in systemic approach. Fundamentally, it recognizes that the whole state and civil society should function as a "universal family" for those who haven't experienced the security of a typical domestic environment.

Ten pioneering healthcare collectives across England have blazed the trail, establishing frameworks that rethink how the NHS—one of Europe's largest employers—can create pathways to care leavers.

The Programme is meticulous in its strategy, starting from comprehensive audits of existing practices, forming management frameworks, and obtaining leadership support. It acknowledges that effective inclusion requires more than lofty goals—it demands tangible actions.

In NHS Birmingham and Solihull ICB, where James started his career, they've created a regular internal communication network with representatives who can deliver help and direction on wellbeing, HR matters, recruitment, and EDI initiatives.

The traditional NHS recruitment process—formal and often daunting—has been intentionally adjusted. Job advertisements now emphasize personal qualities rather than numerous requirements. Application procedures have been reimagined to address the unique challenges care leavers might face—from not having work-related contacts to struggling with internet access.

Maybe most importantly, the Programme understands that starting a job can pose particular problems for care leavers who may be managing independent living without the backup of familial aid. Concerns like commuting fees, identification documents, and bank accounts—taken for granted by many—can become major obstacles.

The beauty of the Programme lies in its meticulous consideration—from clarifying salary details to providing transportation assistance until that crucial first payday. Even ostensibly trivial elements like break times and workplace conduct are deliberately addressed.

For James, whose professional path has "transformed" his life, the Programme provided more than employment. It provided him a sense of belonging—that ineffable quality that emerges when someone senses worth not despite their past but because their particular journey enriches the organization.

"Working for the NHS isn't just about doctors and nurses," James observes, his gaze showing the subtle satisfaction of someone who has discovered belonging. "It's about a family of different jobs and roles, a group of people who truly matter."

The NHS Universal Family Programme embodies more than an work program. It functions as a powerful statement 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 contribute.

As James navigates his workplace, his presence silently testifies that with the right support, care leavers can thrive in environments once considered beyond reach. The embrace that the NHS has offered through this Programme symbolizes not charity but recognition of overlooked talent and the profound truth that each individual warrants a family that supports their growth.