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 polished footwear move with deliberate precision as he greets 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 inclusion. It rests against a neatly presented outfit that betrays nothing of the difficult path that preceded his arrival.

What distinguishes James from many of his colleagues is not obvious to the casual observer. His bearing discloses nothing of the fact that he was among the first recruits of the NHS Universal Family Programme—an initiative designed specifically for young people who have spent time in care.

“It felt like the NHS was putting its arm around me,” James explains, his voice steady but revealing subtle passion. His observation encapsulates the heart of a programme that seeks to transform how the massive 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 commonly experience greater psychological challenges, economic uncertainty, accommodation difficulties, and diminished educational achievements compared to their age-mates. Underlying these clinical numbers are personal narratives of young people who have traversed a system that, despite genuine attempts, regularly misses the mark in delivering the supportive foundation that molds most young lives.

The NHS Universal Family Programme, initiated in January 2023 following NHS England’s promise to the Care Leaver Covenant, represents a significant change in organizational perspective. At its core, it accepts that the entire state and civil society should function as a “communal support system” for those who have missed out on the constancy of a typical domestic environment.

Ten pioneering healthcare collectives across England have charted the course, 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 comprehensive audits of existing policies, forming oversight mechanisms, and obtaining senior buy-in. It acknowledges that meaningful participation requires more than good intentions—it demands practical measures.

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

The standard NHS recruitment process—formal and often daunting—has been thoughtfully adapted. Job advertisements now emphasize character attributes rather than extensive qualifications. Applications have been reconsidered to address the specific obstacles care leavers might face—from lacking professional references to struggling with internet access.

Maybe most importantly, the Programme understands that starting a job can present unique challenges for care leavers who may be managing independent living without the support of family resources. Issues like travel expenses, identification documents, and financial services—taken for granted by many—can become substantial hurdles.

The elegance of the Programme lies in its attention to detail—from clarifying salary details to offering travel loans until that crucial first payday. Even seemingly minor aspects like rest periods and office etiquette are carefully explained.

For James, whose career trajectory has “revolutionized” his life, the Programme provided more than work. It provided him a feeling of connection—that intangible quality that develops when someone is appreciated not despite their past but because their particular journey enriches the workplace.

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

The NHS Universal Family Programme embodies more than an employment initiative. It exists as a powerful statement that systems can change to welcome those who have known different challenges. In doing so, they not only transform individual lives but enrich themselves through the special insights that care leavers provide.

As James walks the corridors, his presence subtly proves that with the right support, care leavers can succeed in environments once deemed unattainable. The embrace that the NHS has offered through this Programme signifies not charity but appreciation of hidden abilities and the fundamental reality that all people merit a support system that supports their growth.