Among the organized chaos of medical professionals in Birmingham, a young man named James Stokes carries himself with the measured poise of someone who has found his place. His oxford shoes whisper against the floor as he greets colleagues—some by name, others with the comfortable currency of a "hello there."

James carries his identification not merely as an employee badge but as a testament of belonging. It rests against a neatly presented outfit that offers no clue of the difficult path that brought him here.

What sets apart James from many of his colleagues is not immediately apparent. His demeanor discloses nothing of the fact that he was among the first beneficiaries of the NHS Universal Family Programme—an effort created purposefully for young people who have experienced life in local authority care.

"It felt like the NHS was putting its arm around me," James says, his voice measured but revealing subtle passion. His remark captures the heart of a programme that strives to transform 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 numbers paint a stark picture. Care leavers commonly experience higher rates of mental health issues, financial instability, accommodation difficulties, and lower academic success compared to their contemporaries. Behind these clinical numbers are human stories of young people who have maneuvered through a system that, despite best intentions, frequently fails in providing the nurturing environment that forms most young lives.

The NHS Universal Family Programme, established in January 2023 following NHS England's commitment to the Care Leaver Covenant, embodies a substantial transformation in institutional thinking. At its core, it recognizes that the whole state and civil society should function as a "collective parent" for those who have missed out on the constancy of a traditional family setting.

Ten pioneering healthcare collectives across England have led the way, establishing 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, beginning with thorough assessments of existing procedures, establishing governance structures, and garnering executive backing. It acknowledges that meaningful participation requires more than good intentions—it demands practical measures.

In NHS Birmingham and Solihull ICB, where James found his footing, they've established a reliable information exchange with representatives who can provide assistance and counsel on mental health, HR matters, recruitment, and EDI initiatives.

The traditional NHS recruitment process—formal and potentially intimidating—has been carefully modified. Job advertisements now highlight personal qualities rather than long lists of credentials. Application processes have been reimagined to address the unique challenges care leavers might experience—from missing employment history to having limited internet access.

Perhaps most significantly, the Programme understands that starting a job can pose particular problems for care leavers who may be managing independent living without the backup of familial aid. Matters like commuting fees, proper ID, and financial services—assumed basic by many—can become substantial hurdles.

The beauty of the Programme lies in its attention to detail—from clarifying salary details to helping with commuting costs until that crucial first payday. Even seemingly minor aspects like coffee breaks and office etiquette are carefully explained.

For James, whose NHS journey has "changed" his life, the Programme provided more than work. It gave him a sense of belonging—that ineffable quality that develops when someone senses worth not despite their background but because their unique life experiences improves the workplace.

"Working for the NHS isn't just about doctors and nurses," James observes, his gaze showing the subtle satisfaction of someone who has secured his position. "It's about a collective of different jobs and roles, a team of people who really connect."

The NHS Universal Family Programme embodies more than an job scheme. It functions as a bold declaration that organizations can change to embrace those who have navigated different paths. In doing so, they not only alter individual futures but improve their services through the distinct viewpoints that care leavers contribute.

As James navigates his workplace, his participation silently testifies that with the right support, care leavers can flourish in environments once considered beyond reach. The embrace that the NHS has offered through this Programme represents not charity but acknowledgment of untapped potential and the essential fact that all people merit a support system that champions their success.