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 barely make a sound as he exchanges pleasantries with colleagues—some by name, others with the comfortable currency of a "good morning."

James displays his credentials not merely as an employee badge but as a declaration of inclusion. It hangs against a pressed shirt that gives no indication of the challenging road that brought him here.

What distinguishes James from many of his colleagues is not visible on the surface. His bearing gives away nothing of the fact that he was among the first recruits of the NHS Universal Family Programme—an undertaking created purposefully for young people who have been through the care system.

"The Programme embraced me when I needed it most," James reflects, his voice measured but tinged with emotion. His remark captures the core of a programme that aims to revolutionize how the enormous healthcare system perceives care leavers—those frequently marginalized young people aged 16-25 who have emerged from the care system.

The statistics paint a stark picture. Care leavers often face higher rates of mental health issues, economic uncertainty, shelter insecurities, and reduced scholarly attainment compared to their age-mates. Underlying these impersonal figures are human stories of young people who have navigated a system that, despite best intentions, regularly misses the mark in offering the stable base that shapes most young lives.

The NHS Universal Family Programme, initiated in January 2023 following NHS England's promise to the Care Leaver Covenant, embodies a profound shift in systemic approach. At its heart, it acknowledges that the complete state and civil society should function as a "communal support system" for those who haven't experienced the constancy of a traditional family setting.

Ten pathfinder integrated care boards across England have charted the course, establishing frameworks that rethink how the NHS—one of Europe's largest employers—can open its doors to care leavers.

The Programme is detailed in its approach, beginning with comprehensive audits of existing policies, establishing governance structures, and securing leadership support. It acknowledges that meaningful participation requires more than good intentions—it demands practical measures.

In NHS Birmingham and Solihull ICB, where James started his career, they've created a consistent support system with representatives who can provide assistance and counsel on mental health, HR matters, recruitment, and equality, diversity, and inclusion.

The standard NHS recruitment process—structured and often daunting—has been thoughtfully adapted. Job advertisements now emphasize attitudinal traits rather than long lists of credentials. Application processes have been redesigned to consider the specific obstacles care leavers might encounter—from missing employment history to having limited internet access.

Possibly most crucially, the Programme recognizes that entering the workforce can pose particular problems for care leavers who may be navigating autonomy without the support of family resources. Issues like travel expenses, personal documentation, and financial services—assumed basic by many—can become major obstacles.

The brilliance of the Programme lies in its meticulous consideration—from clarifying salary details to offering travel loans until that essential first wage disbursement. Even ostensibly trivial elements like rest periods and workplace conduct are thoughtfully covered.

For James, whose professional path has "changed" his life, the Programme offered more than a job. It gave him a feeling of connection—that ineffable quality that grows when someone senses worth not despite their past but because their distinct perspective enriches the workplace.

"Working for the NHS isn't just about doctors and nurses," James comments, his gaze showing the quiet pride of someone who has found his place. "It's about a collective of different jobs and roles, a family of people who genuinely care."

The NHS Universal Family Programme represents more than an employment initiative. It functions as a bold declaration that institutions can change to include those who have known different challenges. In doing so, they not only alter individual futures but improve their services through the special insights that care leavers contribute.

As James walks the corridors, his involvement quietly demonstrates that with the right support, care leavers can succeed in environments once considered beyond reach. The support that the NHS has extended through this Programme signifies not charity but recognition of untapped potential and the fundamental reality that everyone deserves a support system that supports their growth.