NHS: A Universal Embrace

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 greets colleagues—some by name, others with the comfortable currency of a “how are you.”

James carries his identification not merely as an employee badge but as a testament of acceptance. It rests against a neatly presented outfit that betrays nothing of the challenging road that preceded his arrival.

What sets apart James from many of his colleagues is not visible on the surface. His bearing reveals nothing of the fact that he was among the first beneficiaries of the NHS Universal Family Programme—an initiative created purposefully for young people who have experienced life in local authority care.

“I found genuine support within the NHS structure,” James reflects, his voice measured but revealing subtle passion. His remark encapsulates the essence of a programme that strives to revolutionize how the vast healthcare system views care leavers—those often overlooked young people aged 16-25 who have graduated out of the care system.

The figures paint a stark picture. Care leavers frequently encounter greater psychological challenges, financial instability, shelter insecurities, and reduced scholarly attainment compared to their contemporaries. Behind these impersonal figures are individual journeys of young people who have traversed a system that, despite best intentions, often falls short in delivering the supportive foundation that shapes 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. Fundamentally, it recognizes that the entire state and civil society should function as a “communal support system” for those who haven’t known the constancy of a traditional family setting.

A select group of healthcare regions across England have led the way, developing frameworks that reimagine how the NHS—one of Europe’s largest employers—can open its doors to care leavers.

The Programme is detailed in its approach, starting from thorough assessments of existing procedures, forming management frameworks, and garnering leadership support. It acknowledges that successful integration requires more than good intentions—it demands concrete steps.

In NHS Birmingham and Solihull ICB, where James began his journey, they’ve developed a consistent support system with representatives who can offer support, advice, and guidance on personal welfare, HR matters, recruitment, and inclusivity efforts.

The conventional NHS recruitment process—structured and often daunting—has been thoughtfully adapted. Job advertisements now focus on personal qualities rather than numerous requirements. Applications have been reconsidered to address the particular difficulties care leavers might face—from not having work-related contacts to struggling with internet access.

Possibly most crucially, the Programme understands that entering the workforce can pose particular problems for care leavers who may be managing independent living without the backup of familial aid. Concerns like transportation costs, identification documents, and bank accounts—assumed basic by many—can become significant barriers.

The elegance of the Programme lies in its attention to detail—from outlining compensation information to helping with commuting costs until that crucial first salary payment. Even seemingly minor aspects like coffee breaks and office etiquette are carefully explained.

For James, whose career trajectory has “transformed” his life, the Programme provided more than work. It provided him a perception of inclusion—that intangible quality that develops when someone feels valued not despite their past but because their distinct perspective enriches the organization.

“Working for the NHS isn’t just about doctors and nurses,” James notes, his gaze showing the modest fulfillment of someone who has secured his position. “It’s about a family of different jobs and roles, a team of people who genuinely care.”

The NHS Universal Family Programme exemplifies more than an work program. It functions as a bold declaration that institutions can adapt to embrace those who have known different challenges. In doing so, they not only transform individual lives but enrich themselves through the unique perspectives that care leavers provide.

As James moves through the hospital, his involvement silently testifies that with the right assistance, care leavers can flourish in environments once thought inaccessible. The arm that the NHS has offered through this Programme signifies not charity but acknowledgment of untapped potential and the profound truth that each individual warrants a family that believes in them.