Among the organized chaos of medical professionals in Birmingham, a young man named James Stokes moves with quiet purpose. His smart 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 an employee badge but as a symbol of acceptance. It hangs against a well-maintained uniform that gives no indication of the difficult path that led him to this place.

What sets apart James from many of his colleagues is not visible on the surface. His demeanor gives away nothing of the fact that he was among the first participants of the NHS Universal Family Programme—an effort crafted intentionally for young people who have experienced life in local authority care.

"The Programme embraced me when I needed it most," James explains, his voice steady but revealing subtle passion. His observation summarizes the heart of a programme that aims to reinvent how the enormous healthcare system approaches care leavers—those often overlooked young people aged 16-25 who have transitioned from the care system.

The numbers tell a troubling story. Care leavers often face higher rates of mental health issues, money troubles, accommodation difficulties, and diminished educational achievements compared to their peers. Underlying these cold statistics are individual journeys of young people who have traversed a system that, despite genuine attempts, often falls short in offering the nurturing environment that molds most young lives.

The NHS Universal Family Programme, established in January 2023 following NHS England's pledge to the Care Leaver Covenant, signifies a significant change in systemic approach. At its core, it accepts that the complete state and civil society should function as a "universal family" for those who haven't known the security of a traditional family setting.

Ten pioneering healthcare collectives across England have blazed the trail, developing structures that rethink how the NHS—one of Europe's largest employers—can extend opportunities to care leavers.

The Programme is meticulous in its approach, beginning with thorough assessments of existing policies, establishing governance structures, and securing senior buy-in. It understands that meaningful participation requires more than good intentions—it demands practical measures.

In NHS Birmingham and Solihull ICB, where James began his journey, they've developed a reliable information exchange with representatives who can offer help and direction on wellbeing, HR matters, recruitment, and EDI initiatives.

The standard NHS recruitment process—rigid and potentially intimidating—has been carefully modified. Job advertisements now highlight attitudinal traits rather than numerous requirements. Applications have been redesigned to consider the unique challenges care leavers might encounter—from lacking professional references to facing barriers to internet access.

Possibly most crucially, the Programme acknowledges that entering the workforce can pose particular problems for care leavers who may be managing independent living without the support of family resources. Issues like travel expenses, personal documentation, and financial services—taken for granted by many—can become major obstacles.

The brilliance of the Programme lies in its thorough planning—from clarifying salary details to offering travel loans until that critical first salary payment. Even ostensibly trivial elements like coffee breaks and workplace conduct are carefully explained.

For James, whose professional path has "changed" his life, the Programme offered more than a job. It gave him a perception of inclusion—that intangible quality that emerges when someone is appreciated not despite their history but because their unique life experiences enriches the organization.

"Working for the NHS isn't just about doctors and nurses," James comments, his gaze showing the modest fulfillment of someone who has secured his position. "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 exists as a strong assertion that systems can evolve 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 provide.

As James walks the corridors, his involvement silently testifies that with the right assistance, care leavers can thrive in environments once deemed unattainable. The embrace that the NHS has extended through this Programme signifies not charity but recognition of overlooked talent and the profound truth that each individual warrants a support system that champions their success.