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 move with deliberate precision as he exchanges pleasantries with colleagues—some by name, others with the familiar currency of a "how are you."

James wears his NHS lanyard not merely as a security requirement but as a declaration of inclusion. It rests against a neatly presented outfit that betrays nothing of the challenging road that preceded his arrival.

What sets apart 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 recruits of the NHS Universal Family Programme—an initiative designed specifically for young people who have been through the care system.

"It felt like the NHS was putting its arm around me," James explains, his voice steady but revealing subtle passion. His remark encapsulates the core of a programme that strives to transform how the vast healthcare system approaches care leavers—those vulnerable young people aged 16-25 who have transitioned from the care system.

The numbers tell a troubling story. Care leavers often face poorer mental health outcomes, financial instability, housing precarity, and reduced scholarly attainment compared to their age-mates. Beneath these impersonal figures are individual journeys of young people who have maneuvered through a system that, despite good efforts, regularly misses the mark in offering the supportive foundation that molds most young lives.

The NHS Universal Family Programme, initiated in January 2023 following NHS England's promise to the Care Leaver Covenant, represents a profound shift in institutional thinking. At its heart, it recognizes that the whole state and civil society should function as a "collective parent" for those who haven't experienced the stability of a typical domestic environment.

Ten pioneering healthcare collectives across England have charted the course, creating systems that reimagine how the NHS—one of Europe's largest employers—can create pathways to care leavers.

The Programme is thorough in its approach, beginning with detailed evaluations of existing procedures, forming oversight mechanisms, and garnering leadership support. It understands that effective inclusion requires more than lofty goals—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 offer help and direction on mental health, HR matters, recruitment, and EDI initiatives.

The traditional NHS recruitment process—rigid and often daunting—has been intentionally adjusted. Job advertisements now highlight attitudinal traits rather than extensive qualifications. Applications have been reimagined to address the particular difficulties care leavers might experience—from lacking professional references to facing barriers to internet access.

Maybe most importantly, the Programme acknowledges that starting a job can create specific difficulties for care leavers who may be handling self-sufficiency without the backup of parental assistance. Matters like travel expenses, identification documents, and financial services—considered standard by many—can become significant barriers.

The beauty of the Programme lies in its attention to detail—from outlining compensation information to providing transportation assistance until that critical first wage disbursement. Even ostensibly trivial elements like break times and office etiquette are thoughtfully covered.

For James, whose NHS journey has "revolutionized" his life, the Programme provided more than work. It gave him a sense of belonging—that elusive quality that emerges when someone feels valued not despite their past but because their unique life experiences improves the institution.

"Working for the NHS isn't just about doctors and nurses," James notes, 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 job scheme. It exists as a strong assertion that organizations can evolve to embrace those who have experienced life differently. In doing so, they not only alter individual futures but enhance their operations through the distinct viewpoints that care leavers provide.

As James walks the corridors, his presence silently testifies that with the right help, care leavers can thrive in environments once deemed unattainable. The support that the NHS has provided through this Programme signifies not charity but recognition of overlooked talent and the essential fact that each individual warrants a support system that believes in them.