NHS: The Family They Never Had

Within the bustling halls of an NHS hospital in Birmingham, a young man named James Stokes moves with quiet purpose. His smart shoes whisper against the floor as he exchanges pleasantries with colleagues—some by name, others with the comfortable currency of a "hello there."

James carries his identification not merely as a security requirement but as a symbol of acceptance. It sits against a neatly presented outfit that betrays nothing of the difficult path that preceded his arrival.

What sets apart James from many of his colleagues is not immediately apparent. His demeanor reveals 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 spent time in care.

"I found genuine support within the NHS structure," James explains, his voice controlled but carrying undertones of feeling. His observation captures the essence of a programme that aims to transform how the massive healthcare system approaches care leavers—those often overlooked young people aged 16-25 who have transitioned from the care system.

The figures tell a troubling story. Care leavers often face greater psychological challenges, money troubles, shelter insecurities, and diminished educational achievements compared to their peers. Behind these cold statistics are individual journeys of young people who have maneuvered through a system that, despite genuine attempts, frequently fails in offering the nurturing environment that molds most young lives.

The NHS Universal Family Programme, initiated in January 2023 following NHS England's commitment to the Care Leaver Covenant, signifies a substantial transformation in organizational perspective. At its heart, it accepts that the entire state and civil society should function as a "universal family" for those who have missed out on the security of a typical domestic environment.

A select group of healthcare regions across England have charted the course, creating frameworks that reconceptualize how the NHS—one of Europe's largest employers—can extend opportunities to care leavers.

The Programme is thorough in its approach, beginning with thorough assessments of existing procedures, creating governance structures, and garnering executive backing. It understands that successful integration requires more than noble aims—it demands practical measures.

In NHS Birmingham and Solihull ICB, where James began his journey, they've established a reliable information exchange with representatives who can offer assistance and counsel on wellbeing, HR matters, recruitment, and EDI initiatives.

The traditional NHS recruitment process—structured and often daunting—has been carefully modified. Job advertisements now emphasize character attributes rather than numerous requirements. Application processes have been redesigned to accommodate the particular difficulties care leavers might experience—from lacking professional references to facing barriers to internet access.

Maybe most importantly, the Programme understands that starting a job can create specific difficulties for care leavers who may be handling self-sufficiency without the backup of familial aid. Matters like commuting fees, proper ID, and financial services—assumed basic by many—can become significant barriers.

The beauty of the Programme lies in its meticulous consideration—from explaining payslip deductions to helping with commuting costs until that crucial first salary payment. Even ostensibly trivial elements like rest periods and professional behavior 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 elusive quality that emerges when someone feels valued not despite their past but because their distinct perspective enhances the workplace.

"Working for the NHS isn't just about doctors and nurses," James observes, his eyes reflecting the subtle satisfaction of someone who has found his place. "It's about a family of different jobs and roles, a family of people who truly matter."

The NHS Universal Family Programme represents more than an job scheme. It functions as a strong assertion that organizations can change to embrace those who have navigated different paths. In doing so, they not only transform individual lives but enrich themselves through the unique perspectives that care leavers contribute.

As James walks the corridors, his presence quietly demonstrates that with the right support, care leavers can flourish in environments once thought inaccessible. The support that the NHS has provided through this Programme represents not charity but recognition of untapped potential and the fundamental reality that all people merit a support system that supports their growth.