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 barely make a sound as he acknowledges colleagues—some by name, others with the comfortable currency of a "how are you."

James carries his identification not merely as a security requirement but as a testament of belonging. It sits against a pressed shirt that gives no indication of the tumultuous journey that led him to this place.

What sets apart 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 initiative created purposefully for young people who have been through the care system.

"I found genuine support within the NHS structure," James reflects, his voice steady but revealing subtle passion. His observation captures the core of a programme that seeks to transform how the enormous healthcare system approaches care leavers—those often overlooked young people aged 16-25 who have transitioned from the care system.

The statistics tell a troubling story. Care leavers frequently encounter greater psychological challenges, money troubles, housing precarity, and diminished educational achievements compared to their age-mates. Behind these clinical numbers are individual journeys of young people who have navigated a system that, despite good efforts, frequently fails in delivering the nurturing environment that shapes most young lives.

The NHS Universal Family Programme, initiated in January 2023 following NHS England's commitment to the Care Leaver Covenant, signifies a profound shift in institutional thinking. Fundamentally, it acknowledges that the whole state and civil society should function as a "universal family" for those who haven't known the stability of a traditional family setting.

A select group of healthcare regions across England have led the way, creating frameworks that reimagine how the NHS—one of Europe's largest employers—can create pathways to care leavers.

The Programme is detailed in its approach, starting from comprehensive audits of existing policies, creating governance structures, and obtaining executive backing. It recognizes that meaningful participation requires more than lofty goals—it demands practical measures.

In NHS Birmingham and Solihull ICB, where James started his career, they've established a consistent support system with representatives who can deliver support, advice, and guidance on personal welfare, HR matters, recruitment, and inclusivity efforts.

The traditional NHS recruitment process—formal and potentially intimidating—has been carefully modified. Job advertisements now highlight personal qualities rather than numerous requirements. Application processes have been reimagined to address the unique challenges care leavers might experience—from not having work-related contacts to struggling with internet access.

Maybe most importantly, the Programme acknowledges that entering the workforce can present unique challenges for care leavers who may be navigating autonomy without the safety net of parental assistance. Concerns like travel expenses, personal documentation, and bank accounts—taken for granted by many—can become substantial hurdles.

The brilliance of the Programme lies in its attention to detail—from explaining payslip deductions to providing transportation assistance until that crucial first wage disbursement. Even ostensibly trivial elements like coffee breaks and professional behavior are carefully explained.

For James, whose career trajectory has "changed" his life, the Programme offered more than work. It offered him a sense of belonging—that intangible quality that grows when someone feels valued not despite their past but because their unique life experiences enriches the institution.

"Working for the NHS isn't just about doctors and nurses," James comments, his eyes reflecting the subtle satisfaction of someone who has secured his position. "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 exists as a powerful statement that organizations can change to include those who have navigated different paths. In doing so, they not only transform individual lives but improve their services through the unique perspectives that care leavers contribute.

As James moves through the hospital, his involvement silently testifies that with the right help, care leavers can succeed in environments once deemed unattainable. The arm that the NHS has offered through this Programme symbolizes not charity but recognition of overlooked talent and the profound truth that each individual warrants a family that supports their growth.