Among the organized chaos of medical professionals in Birmingham, a young man named James Stokes navigates his daily responsibilities with subtle confidence. His polished footwear move with deliberate precision as he greets colleagues—some by name, others with the universal currency of a "good morning."

James carries his identification not merely as an employee badge but as a symbol of inclusion. It rests against a well-maintained uniform that gives no indication of the difficult path that preceded his arrival.

What separates James from many of his colleagues is not immediately apparent. His presence discloses nothing of the fact that he was among the first participants 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 says, his voice controlled but carrying undertones of feeling. His remark encapsulates the heart of a programme that strives to revolutionize how the enormous healthcare system perceives care leavers—those frequently marginalized young people aged 16-25 who have graduated out of the care system.

The numbers paint a stark picture. Care leavers commonly experience poorer mental health outcomes, money troubles, accommodation difficulties, and reduced scholarly attainment compared to their age-mates. Underlying these impersonal figures are personal narratives of young people who have navigated a system that, despite good efforts, frequently fails in offering the supportive foundation that forms 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 institutional thinking. At its heart, it acknowledges that the whole state and civil society should function as a "universal family" for those who haven't experienced the security of a traditional family setting.

Ten pathfinder integrated care boards across England have blazed the trail, developing structures that reimagine how the NHS—one of Europe's largest employers—can create pathways to care leavers.

The Programme is thorough in its approach, initiating with thorough assessments of existing procedures, establishing governance structures, and garnering senior buy-in. It recognizes that effective inclusion requires more than noble aims—it demands concrete steps.

In NHS Birmingham and Solihull ICB, where James found his footing, they've developed a regular internal communication network with representatives who can offer support, advice, and guidance on wellbeing, HR matters, recruitment, and EDI initiatives.

The conventional NHS recruitment process—structured and potentially intimidating—has been carefully modified. Job advertisements now emphasize character attributes rather than numerous requirements. Application procedures have been reconsidered to address the unique challenges care leavers might face—from not having work-related contacts to facing barriers to 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 support of parental assistance. Issues like transportation costs, personal documentation, and banking arrangements—assumed basic by many—can become significant barriers.

The brilliance of the Programme lies in its meticulous consideration—from clarifying salary details to offering travel loans until that essential first salary payment. Even ostensibly trivial elements like coffee breaks and office etiquette are carefully explained.

For James, whose professional path has "revolutionized" his life, the Programme offered more than a job. It gave him a feeling of connection—that intangible quality that grows when someone is appreciated not despite their history but because their distinct perspective enhances the institution.

"Working for the NHS isn't just about doctors and nurses," James comments, his expression revealing the subtle satisfaction of someone who has discovered belonging. "It's about a community of different jobs and roles, a team of people who genuinely care."

The NHS Universal Family Programme embodies more than an work program. It functions as a powerful statement that institutions can adapt to welcome those who have experienced life differently. In doing so, they not only change personal trajectories but improve their services through the special insights that care leavers bring to the table.

As James navigates his workplace, his presence silently testifies that with the right support, care leavers can flourish in environments once deemed unattainable. The arm that the NHS has offered through this Programme symbolizes not charity but acknowledgment of overlooked talent and the fundamental reality that each individual warrants a family that champions their success.