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 "good morning."

James carries his identification not merely as institutional identification but as a testament of belonging. It hangs against a well-maintained uniform that offers no clue of the tumultuous journey that led him to this place.

What distinguishes James from many of his colleagues is not immediately apparent. His bearing reveals nothing of the fact that he was among the first participants of the NHS Universal Family Programme—an initiative designed specifically for young people who have been through the care system.

"The Programme embraced me when I needed it most," James says, his voice measured but revealing subtle passion. His remark captures the heart of a programme that strives to reinvent how the enormous healthcare system approaches care leavers—those frequently marginalized young people aged 16-25 who have emerged from the care system.

The numbers paint a stark picture. Care leavers often face poorer mental health outcomes, money troubles, accommodation difficulties, and lower academic success compared to their peers. Behind these cold statistics are personal narratives of young people who have traversed a system that, despite good efforts, regularly misses the mark in delivering the stable base that molds most young lives.

The NHS Universal Family Programme, established in January 2023 following NHS England's commitment to the Care Leaver Covenant, signifies a profound shift in institutional thinking. Fundamentally, it recognizes that the complete state and civil society should function as a "communal support system" for those who haven't experienced the constancy of a conventional home.

A select group of healthcare regions across England have blazed the trail, establishing frameworks that reconceptualize how the NHS—one of Europe's largest employers—can create pathways to care leavers.

The Programme is detailed in its approach, beginning with detailed evaluations of existing practices, creating management frameworks, and securing senior buy-in. It understands that effective inclusion requires more than lofty goals—it demands concrete steps.

In NHS Birmingham and Solihull ICB, where James started his career, they've developed a regular internal communication network with representatives who can deliver support, advice, and guidance on mental health, HR matters, recruitment, and EDI initiatives.

The conventional NHS recruitment process—rigid and often daunting—has been intentionally adjusted. Job advertisements now focus on attitudinal traits rather than long lists of credentials. Application processes have been reimagined to accommodate the unique challenges care leavers might experience—from missing employment history to having limited internet access.

Maybe most importantly, the Programme acknowledges that beginning employment can pose particular problems for care leavers who may be managing independent living without the safety net of family resources. Matters like travel expenses, identification documents, and financial services—considered standard by many—can become substantial hurdles.

The beauty of the Programme lies in its attention to detail—from outlining compensation information to helping with commuting costs until that critical first wage disbursement. Even seemingly minor aspects like coffee breaks and workplace conduct are thoughtfully covered.

For James, whose professional path has "changed" his life, the Programme delivered more than work. It gave him a feeling of connection—that elusive quality that grows when someone senses worth not despite their past but because their particular journey enriches the organization.

"Working for the NHS isn't just about doctors and nurses," James observes, his gaze showing the subtle satisfaction of someone who has discovered belonging. "It's about a collective of different jobs and roles, a group of people who really connect."

The NHS Universal Family Programme exemplifies more than an work program. It exists as a bold declaration that institutions can adapt to welcome those who have known different challenges. In doing so, they not only change personal trajectories but enhance their operations through the unique perspectives that care leavers bring to the table.

As James moves through the hospital, his presence silently testifies that with the right assistance, care leavers can flourish in environments once considered beyond reach. The embrace that the NHS has offered through this Programme signifies not charity but recognition of untapped potential and the profound truth that all people merit a community that supports their growth.