NHS: The Family They Never Had

In the sterile corridors of Birmingham Women’s and Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, a young man named James Stokes moves with quiet purpose. His smart shoes move with deliberate precision as he acknowledges colleagues—some by name, others with the comfortable currency of a «how are you.»

James wears his NHS lanyard not merely as a security requirement but as a declaration of acceptance. It rests against a well-maintained uniform that gives no indication of the difficult path that brought him here.

What distinguishes James from many of his colleagues is not immediately apparent. His bearing discloses nothing of the fact that he was among the first beneficiaries 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 measured but revealing subtle passion. His statement encapsulates the heart of a programme that seeks to reinvent how the massive healthcare system approaches care leavers—those frequently marginalized young people aged 16-25 who have transitioned from the care system.

The numbers tell a troubling story. Care leavers often face higher rates of mental health issues, money troubles, shelter insecurities, and reduced scholarly attainment compared to their contemporaries. Underlying these cold statistics are human stories of young people who have traversed 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 commitment to the Care Leaver Covenant, represents a profound shift in systemic approach. Fundamentally, it recognizes that the whole state and civil society should function as a «universal family» for those who have missed out on the stability of a traditional family setting.

Ten pathfinder integrated care boards across England have charted the course, creating frameworks that rethink how the NHS—one of Europe’s largest employers—can extend opportunities to care leavers.

The Programme is detailed in its methodology, initiating with detailed evaluations of existing policies, creating management frameworks, and obtaining leadership support. It acknowledges that meaningful participation requires more than lofty goals—it demands tangible actions.

In NHS Birmingham and Solihull ICB, where James found his footing, they’ve established a reliable information exchange with representatives who can offer help and direction on personal welfare, HR matters, recruitment, and EDI initiatives.

The traditional NHS recruitment process—structured and potentially intimidating—has been carefully modified. Job advertisements now highlight personal qualities rather than numerous requirements. Applications have been reimagined to consider the specific obstacles care leavers might experience—from missing employment history to having limited internet access.

Possibly most crucially, the Programme understands that entering the workforce can pose particular problems for care leavers who may be navigating autonomy without the support of family resources. Issues like commuting fees, personal documentation, and financial services—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 providing transportation assistance until that essential first salary payment. Even apparently small matters like rest periods and professional behavior are thoughtfully covered.

For James, whose NHS journey has «changed» his life, the Programme provided more than a job. It provided him a sense of belonging—that ineffable quality that develops when someone senses worth not despite their history but because their distinct perspective enriches the organization.

«Working for the NHS isn’t just about doctors and nurses,» James observes, his eyes reflecting the quiet pride of someone who has discovered belonging. «It’s about a family of different jobs and roles, a family of people who genuinely care.»

The NHS Universal Family Programme embodies more than an job scheme. It exists as a bold declaration that systems can change to embrace those who have known different challenges. In doing so, they not only transform individual lives but improve their services through the distinct viewpoints that care leavers bring to the table.

As James navigates his workplace, his presence subtly proves that with the right help, care leavers can flourish in environments once thought inaccessible. The arm that the NHS has provided through this Programme symbolizes not charity but appreciation of overlooked talent and the essential fact that everyone deserves a family that believes in them.