NHS: A Universal Embrace

In the sterile corridors of Birmingham Women's and Children's NHS Foundation Trust, a young man named James Stokes carries himself with the measured poise of someone who has found his place. His smart shoes barely make a sound as he exchanges pleasantries with colleagues—some by name, others with the universal currency of a "how are you."

James displays his credentials not merely as institutional identification but as a symbol of inclusion. It sits against a neatly presented outfit that betrays nothing of the tumultuous journey that preceded his arrival.

What distinguishes James from many of his colleagues is not immediately apparent. His demeanor gives away nothing of the fact that he was among the first recruits of the NHS Universal Family Programme—an effort designed specifically for young people who have been through the care system.

"I found genuine support within the NHS structure," James says, his voice steady but carrying undertones of feeling. His statement captures the heart of a programme that aims to revolutionize how the massive healthcare system approaches care leavers—those frequently marginalized 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, housing precarity, and diminished educational achievements compared to their contemporaries. Beneath these cold statistics are personal narratives of young people who have maneuvered through a system that, despite genuine attempts, often falls short in offering the supportive foundation that molds most young lives.

The NHS Universal Family Programme, established in January 2023 following NHS England's promise to the Care Leaver Covenant, represents a profound shift in organizational perspective. Fundamentally, it recognizes that the entire state and civil society should function as a "universal family" for those who haven't known the stability of a typical domestic environment.

Ten pathfinder integrated care boards across England have charted the course, creating systems 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 detailed evaluations of existing practices, establishing governance structures, and garnering leadership support. It understands that successful integration requires more than noble aims—it demands practical measures.

In NHS Birmingham and Solihull ICB, where James started his career, they've created a regular internal communication network with representatives who can offer support, advice, and guidance on wellbeing, HR matters, recruitment, and EDI initiatives.

The standard NHS recruitment process—structured and possibly overwhelming—has been thoughtfully adapted. Job advertisements now emphasize personal qualities rather than extensive qualifications. Application procedures have been reimagined to address the unique challenges care leavers might face—from lacking professional references to having limited internet access.

Possibly most crucially, the Programme understands that starting a job can present unique challenges for care leavers who may be managing independent living without the backup of parental assistance. Matters like commuting fees, identification documents, and bank accounts—taken for granted by many—can become significant barriers.

The brilliance of the Programme lies in its meticulous consideration—from explaining payslip deductions to offering travel loans until that crucial first payday. Even ostensibly trivial elements like rest periods and professional behavior are carefully explained.

For James, whose career trajectory has "changed" his life, the Programme provided more than work. It gave him a feeling of connection—that ineffable quality that emerges 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 comments, his expression revealing the modest fulfillment of someone who has found his place. "It's about a collective of different jobs and roles, a group of people who genuinely care."

The NHS Universal Family Programme represents more than an job scheme. It exists as a bold declaration that systems can change to welcome those who have navigated different paths. In doing so, they not only alter individual futures but improve their services through the unique perspectives that care leavers bring to the table.

As James walks the corridors, his presence subtly proves that with the right support, care leavers can succeed in environments once deemed unattainable. The support that the NHS has provided through this Programme symbolizes not charity but recognition of untapped potential and the essential fact that each individual warrants a family that supports their growth.