Among the organized chaos of medical professionals in Birmingham, a young man named James Stokes carries himself with the measured poise of someone who has found his place. His smart shoes whisper against the floor 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 symbol of acceptance. It sits against a well-maintained uniform that offers no clue of the tumultuous journey that brought him here.

What separates James from many of his colleagues is not immediately apparent. His demeanor discloses nothing of the fact that he was among the first beneficiaries of the NHS Universal Family Programme—an undertaking created purposefully for young people who have been through the care system.

"It felt like the NHS was putting its arm around me," James says, his voice steady but carrying undertones of feeling. His remark captures the essence of a programme that strives to revolutionize how the vast healthcare system approaches care leavers—those often overlooked young people aged 16-25 who have graduated out of the care system.

The statistics paint a stark picture. Care leavers often face higher rates of mental health issues, money troubles, shelter insecurities, and lower academic success compared to their peers. Behind these cold statistics are individual journeys of young people who have traversed a system that, despite genuine attempts, frequently fails in providing the supportive foundation 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 systemic approach. At its heart, it recognizes that the complete state and civil society should function as a "universal family" for those who have missed out on the security of a conventional home.

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

The Programme is meticulous in its methodology, starting from detailed evaluations of existing policies, creating management frameworks, and securing leadership support. It understands that meaningful participation requires more than good intentions—it demands tangible actions.

In NHS Birmingham and Solihull ICB, where James found his footing, they've established a consistent support system with representatives who can deliver assistance and counsel on mental health, HR matters, recruitment, and inclusivity efforts.

The traditional NHS recruitment process—structured and often daunting—has been carefully modified. Job advertisements now focus on attitudinal traits rather than extensive qualifications. Application procedures have been reimagined to accommodate the unique challenges care leavers might experience—from missing employment history to struggling with internet access.

Maybe most importantly, the Programme acknowledges that starting a job can create specific difficulties for care leavers who may be handling self-sufficiency without the backup of parental assistance. Concerns like transportation costs, personal documentation, and financial services—considered standard by many—can become substantial hurdles.

The brilliance of the Programme lies in its attention to detail—from explaining payslip deductions to offering travel loans until that essential first salary payment. Even apparently small matters like rest periods and professional behavior are thoughtfully covered.

For James, whose NHS journey has "transformed" his life, the Programme delivered more than a job. It offered him a feeling of connection—that ineffable quality that grows when someone senses worth not despite their past but because their distinct perspective enhances the organization.

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

The NHS Universal Family Programme represents more than an job scheme. It exists as a powerful statement that institutions 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 special insights that care leavers contribute.

As James navigates his workplace, his involvement silently testifies that with the right assistance, care leavers can flourish in environments once thought inaccessible. The arm that the NHS has provided through this Programme represents not charity but appreciation of overlooked talent and the essential fact that everyone deserves a family that champions their success.