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 whisper against the floor 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 an employee badge but as a testament of acceptance. It sits against a neatly presented outfit that offers no clue of the tumultuous journey that led him to this place.

What sets apart James from many of his colleagues is not visible on the surface. His presence gives away nothing of the fact that he was among the first recruits of the NHS Universal Family Programme—an undertaking crafted intentionally for young people who have spent time in care.

"The Programme embraced me when I needed it most," James reflects, his voice controlled but revealing subtle passion. His statement captures the heart 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 tell a troubling story. Care leavers often face poorer mental health outcomes, money troubles, accommodation difficulties, and diminished educational achievements compared to their peers. Underlying these clinical numbers are personal narratives of young people who have traversed a system that, despite best intentions, regularly misses the mark in offering the nurturing environment that molds most young lives.

The NHS Universal Family Programme, launched in January 2023 following NHS England's pledge to the Care Leaver Covenant, embodies a substantial transformation in systemic approach. At its heart, it recognizes that the complete state and civil society should function as a "collective parent" for those who haven't experienced the constancy of a typical domestic environment.

Ten pioneering healthcare collectives across England have blazed the trail, developing structures that rethink how the NHS—one of Europe's largest employers—can create pathways to care leavers.

The Programme is meticulous in its approach, beginning with detailed evaluations of existing practices, establishing governance structures, and garnering executive backing. It recognizes that effective inclusion requires more than lofty goals—it demands concrete steps.

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 wellbeing, HR matters, recruitment, and equality, diversity, and inclusion.

The conventional NHS recruitment process—formal and often daunting—has been intentionally adjusted. Job advertisements now highlight personal qualities rather than long lists of credentials. Application procedures have been redesigned to accommodate the particular difficulties care leavers might experience—from missing employment history to struggling with internet access.

Maybe most importantly, the Programme understands that starting a job can pose particular problems for care leavers who may be managing independent living without the backup of family resources. Concerns like transportation costs, identification documents, and bank accounts—considered standard by many—can become major obstacles.

The brilliance of the Programme lies in its attention to detail—from outlining compensation information to helping with commuting costs until that crucial first payday. Even apparently small matters like rest periods and office etiquette are carefully explained.

For James, whose NHS journey has "changed" his life, the Programme delivered more than work. It provided him a feeling of connection—that elusive quality that grows when someone senses worth not despite their background but because their particular journey improves the organization.

"Working for the NHS isn't just about doctors and nurses," James comments, his expression revealing the quiet pride of someone who has discovered belonging. "It's about a community of different jobs and roles, a team of people who genuinely care."

The NHS Universal Family Programme embodies more than an job scheme. It exists as a strong assertion that institutions can adapt to include those who have known different challenges. In doing so, they not only change personal trajectories but improve their services through the distinct viewpoints that care leavers provide.

As James walks the corridors, his presence quietly demonstrates that with the right help, care leavers can flourish in environments once thought inaccessible. The support that the NHS has offered through this Programme represents not charity but appreciation of hidden abilities and the profound truth that all people merit a family that champions their success.