NHS: A Universal Embrace

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 move with deliberate precision as he exchanges pleasantries with colleagues—some by name, others with the universal currency of a “good morning.”

James displays his credentials not merely as an employee badge but as a symbol of belonging. It sits against a neatly presented outfit that gives no indication of the difficult path that preceded his arrival.

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 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 explains, his voice controlled but revealing subtle passion. His remark captures the heart of a programme that aims to revolutionize how the massive healthcare system approaches care leavers—those often overlooked young people aged 16-25 who have transitioned from the care system.

The figures tell a troubling story. Care leavers often face poorer mental health outcomes, money troubles, shelter insecurities, and reduced scholarly attainment compared to their contemporaries. Behind these cold statistics are individual journeys of young people who have traversed a system that, despite best intentions, frequently fails in providing the nurturing environment that shapes most young lives.

The NHS Universal Family Programme, launched in January 2023 following NHS England’s commitment to the Care Leaver Covenant, embodies a substantial transformation in systemic approach. At its heart, it recognizes that the whole state and civil society should function as a “communal support system” for those who haven’t known the stability of a traditional family setting.

A select group of healthcare regions across England have charted the course, developing systems that reconceptualize how the NHS—one of Europe’s largest employers—can extend opportunities to care leavers.

The Programme is detailed in its approach, starting from detailed evaluations of existing practices, forming oversight mechanisms, and securing leadership support. It understands that effective inclusion requires more than lofty goals—it demands concrete steps.

In NHS Birmingham and Solihull ICB, where James began his journey, they’ve established a consistent support system with representatives who can deliver help and direction on mental health, HR matters, recruitment, and EDI initiatives.

The conventional NHS recruitment process—structured and often daunting—has been carefully modified. Job advertisements now emphasize attitudinal traits rather than extensive qualifications. Application processes have been reimagined to consider the unique challenges care leavers might encounter—from not having work-related contacts to facing barriers to internet access.

Perhaps most significantly, the Programme recognizes that beginning employment can pose particular problems for care leavers who may be navigating autonomy without the support of parental assistance. Issues like transportation costs, identification documents, and financial services—taken for granted by many—can become major obstacles.

The beauty of the Programme lies in its meticulous consideration—from outlining compensation information to helping with commuting costs until that essential first payday. Even apparently small matters like rest periods and workplace conduct are carefully explained.

For James, whose professional path has “revolutionized” his life, the Programme delivered more than employment. It gave him a feeling of connection—that ineffable quality that grows when someone feels valued not despite their past but because their distinct perspective enhances the organization.

“Working for the NHS isn’t just about doctors and nurses,” James observes, his gaze showing the quiet pride of someone who has found his place. “It’s about a family of different jobs and roles, a family of people who really connect.”

The NHS Universal Family Programme exemplifies more than an job scheme. It exists as a strong assertion that institutions can adapt to include those who have known different challenges. In doing so, they not only change personal trajectories but enrich themselves through the distinct viewpoints that care leavers provide.

As James walks the corridors, his involvement subtly proves that with the right help, care leavers can thrive in environments once deemed unattainable. The support that the NHS has offered through this Programme represents not charity but acknowledgment of untapped potential and the essential fact that everyone deserves a community that believes in them.