Among the organized chaos of medical professionals in Birmingham, a young man named James Stokes carries himself with the measured poise of someone who has found his place. His oxford shoes barely make a sound as he exchanges pleasantries with colleagues—some by name, others with the familiar currency of a "hello there."

James displays his credentials not merely as a security requirement but as a testament of inclusion. It sits against a well-maintained uniform that betrays nothing of the challenging road that preceded his arrival.

What distinguishes James from many of his colleagues is not obvious to the casual observer. His presence discloses 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 spent time in care.

"The Programme embraced me when I needed it most," James reflects, his voice measured but tinged with emotion. His observation captures the heart of a programme that strives to revolutionize how the vast healthcare system approaches care leavers—those vulnerable young people aged 16-25 who have graduated out of the care system.

The figures tell a troubling story. Care leavers often face higher rates of mental health issues, money troubles, shelter insecurities, and diminished educational achievements compared to their contemporaries. Underlying these cold statistics are personal narratives of young people who have navigated a system that, despite best intentions, frequently fails in offering the nurturing environment that shapes most young lives.

The NHS Universal Family Programme, launched in January 2023 following NHS England's pledge to the Care Leaver Covenant, represents a significant change in systemic approach. Fundamentally, it acknowledges that the whole state and civil society should function as a "communal support system" for those who haven't known the stability of a conventional home.

A select group of healthcare regions across England have led the way, developing frameworks that reconceptualize how the NHS—one of Europe's largest employers—can create pathways to care leavers.

The Programme is meticulous in its strategy, initiating with detailed evaluations of existing policies, establishing oversight mechanisms, and securing senior buy-in. It recognizes that meaningful participation requires more than noble aims—it demands practical measures.

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

The conventional NHS recruitment process—rigid and often daunting—has been intentionally adjusted. Job advertisements now highlight character attributes rather than numerous requirements. Application processes have been reconsidered to address the specific obstacles care leavers might experience—from missing employment history to struggling with internet access.

Perhaps most significantly, the Programme recognizes that beginning employment can present unique challenges for care leavers who may be handling self-sufficiency without the safety net of familial aid. Matters like commuting fees, identification documents, and banking arrangements—assumed basic by many—can become major obstacles.

The brilliance of the Programme lies in its attention to detail—from clarifying salary details to offering travel loans until that crucial first payday. Even apparently small matters like break times and office etiquette are thoughtfully covered.

For James, whose NHS journey has "changed" his life, the Programme provided more than employment. It offered him a sense of belonging—that elusive quality that emerges when someone is appreciated not despite their background but because their particular journey enhances the institution.

"Working for the NHS isn't just about doctors and nurses," James comments, his eyes reflecting the modest fulfillment of someone who has discovered belonging. "It's about a collective of different jobs and roles, a team of people who really connect."

The NHS Universal Family Programme exemplifies more than an job scheme. It functions as a strong assertion that organizations can adapt to welcome those who have navigated different paths. In doing so, they not only transform individual lives but improve their services through the distinct viewpoints that care leavers contribute.

As James walks the corridors, his involvement silently testifies that with the right support, care leavers can flourish in environments once deemed unattainable. The support that the NHS has provided through this Programme symbolizes not charity but recognition of untapped potential and the essential fact that all people merit a family that believes in them.