NHS: A Universal Embrace

Within the bustling halls of an NHS hospital in Birmingham, a young man named James Stokes carries himself with the measured poise of someone who has found his place. His oxford shoes whisper against the floor as he acknowledges colleagues—some by name, others with the universal currency of a “hello there.”

James carries his identification not merely as an employee badge but as a testament of belonging. It hangs against a neatly presented outfit that betrays nothing of the tumultuous journey that brought him here.

What distinguishes James from many of his colleagues is not immediately apparent. His presence reveals nothing of the fact that he was among the first recruits of the NHS Universal Family Programme—an initiative crafted intentionally 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 revealing subtle passion. His observation captures the essence of a programme that seeks to transform how the enormous healthcare system views care leavers—those often overlooked young people aged 16-25 who have transitioned from the care system.

The numbers paint a stark picture. Care leavers commonly experience higher rates of mental health issues, money troubles, shelter insecurities, and diminished educational achievements compared to their age-mates. Underlying these cold statistics are personal narratives of young people who have maneuvered through a system that, despite genuine attempts, regularly misses the mark in offering 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, represents a significant change in systemic approach. At its heart, it acknowledges that the entire 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 charted the course, creating structures that reconceptualize how the NHS—one of Europe’s largest employers—can create pathways to care leavers.

The Programme is meticulous in its strategy, beginning with detailed evaluations of existing policies, establishing management frameworks, and securing executive backing. It recognizes that successful integration requires more than good intentions—it demands practical measures.

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

The standard NHS recruitment process—formal and often daunting—has been intentionally adjusted. Job advertisements now focus on character attributes rather than numerous requirements. Applications have been reconsidered to address the specific obstacles care leavers might encounter—from lacking professional references to struggling with internet access.

Perhaps most significantly, the Programme recognizes that starting a job can create specific difficulties for care leavers who may be managing independent living without the backup of parental assistance. Concerns like commuting fees, identification documents, and banking arrangements—taken for granted by many—can become substantial hurdles.

The elegance of the Programme lies in its attention to detail—from explaining payslip deductions to offering travel loans until that critical first wage disbursement. Even ostensibly trivial elements like coffee breaks and professional behavior are carefully explained.

For James, whose career trajectory has “revolutionized” his life, the Programme offered more than a job. It offered him a feeling of connection—that elusive quality that develops when someone senses worth not despite their past but because their distinct perspective improves the institution.

“Working for the NHS isn’t just about doctors and nurses,” James notes, his gaze showing the subtle satisfaction of someone who has discovered belonging. “It’s about a community of different jobs and roles, a family of people who really connect.”

The NHS Universal Family Programme represents more than an employment initiative. It stands as a bold declaration that organizations can change to include those who have known different challenges. In doing so, they not only transform individual lives but improve their services through the unique perspectives that care leavers provide.

As James moves through the hospital, his participation subtly proves that with the right support, care leavers can succeed in environments once considered beyond reach. The support that the NHS has extended through this Programme signifies not charity but appreciation of hidden abilities and the profound truth that each individual warrants a support system that champions their success.