Within the bustling halls of an NHS hospital in Birmingham, a young man named James Stokes moves with quiet purpose. His polished footwear move with deliberate precision as he acknowledges colleagues—some by name, others with the universal currency of a "how are you."

James wears his NHS lanyard not merely as a security requirement but as a symbol of inclusion. It hangs against a pressed shirt that betrays nothing of the challenging road that led him to this place.

What sets apart James from many of his colleagues is not visible on the surface. His presence discloses nothing of the fact that he was among the first participants of the NHS Universal Family Programme—an undertaking designed specifically for young people who have been through the care system.

"It felt like the NHS was putting its arm around me," James reflects, his voice controlled but tinged with emotion. His remark encapsulates the core of a programme that strives to revolutionize how the vast healthcare system perceives care leavers—those often overlooked young people aged 16-25 who have graduated out of the care system.

The numbers paint a stark picture. Care leavers frequently encounter greater psychological challenges, economic uncertainty, shelter insecurities, and reduced scholarly attainment compared to their age-mates. Underlying these clinical numbers are personal narratives of young people who have navigated a system that, despite good efforts, regularly misses the mark in providing the nurturing environment that forms most young lives.

The NHS Universal Family Programme, initiated in January 2023 following NHS England's commitment to the Care Leaver Covenant, embodies a substantial transformation in institutional thinking. At its core, it acknowledges that the whole state and civil society should function as a "collective parent" for those who haven't experienced the security of a conventional home.

Ten pioneering healthcare collectives across England have led the way, creating systems that rethink how the NHS—one of Europe's largest employers—can extend opportunities to care leavers.

The Programme is meticulous in its approach, starting from comprehensive audits of existing procedures, forming governance structures, and securing senior buy-in. It understands that meaningful participation requires more than lofty goals—it demands concrete steps.

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

The conventional NHS recruitment process—structured and potentially intimidating—has been intentionally adjusted. Job advertisements now emphasize character attributes rather than long lists of credentials. Application processes have been reconsidered to consider the unique challenges care leavers might face—from missing employment history to having limited internet access.

Maybe most importantly, the Programme understands that beginning employment can pose particular problems for care leavers who may be managing independent living without the backup of family resources. Matters like travel expenses, proper ID, and bank accounts—taken for granted by many—can become significant barriers.

The beauty of the Programme lies in its attention to detail—from explaining payslip deductions to helping with commuting costs until that critical first salary payment. Even seemingly minor aspects like coffee breaks and workplace conduct are thoughtfully covered.

For James, whose NHS journey has "revolutionized" his life, the Programme provided more than a job. It offered him a perception of inclusion—that ineffable quality that grows when someone is appreciated not despite their past but because their particular journey enriches the institution.

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

The NHS Universal Family Programme represents more than an work program. It exists as a powerful statement that organizations can adapt to embrace those who have experienced life differently. In doing so, they not only change personal trajectories but improve their services through the distinct viewpoints that care leavers bring to the table.

As James navigates his workplace, his participation quietly demonstrates that with the right assistance, care leavers can thrive in environments once deemed unattainable. The support that the NHS has offered through this Programme signifies not charity but acknowledgment of overlooked talent and the essential fact that all people merit a community that supports their growth.