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 polished footwear move with deliberate precision as he exchanges pleasantries with colleagues—some by name, others with the universal currency of a "hello there."

James carries his identification not merely as institutional identification but as a declaration of acceptance. It rests against a neatly presented outfit that betrays nothing of the difficult path that led him to this place.

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 initiative crafted intentionally for young people who have spent time in care.

"It felt like the NHS was putting its arm around me," James says, his voice measured but revealing subtle passion. His observation summarizes the essence of a programme that aims to reinvent how the vast healthcare system views care leavers—those often overlooked young people aged 16-25 who have transitioned from the care system.

The figures paint a stark picture. Care leavers commonly experience poorer mental health outcomes, financial instability, housing precarity, and reduced scholarly attainment compared to their contemporaries. Behind these clinical numbers are personal narratives of young people who have traversed a system that, despite genuine attempts, frequently fails in delivering the stable base that molds most young lives.

The NHS Universal Family Programme, established in January 2023 following NHS England's pledge to the Care Leaver Covenant, signifies a profound shift in systemic approach. Fundamentally, it recognizes that the complete state and civil society should function as a "collective parent" for those who haven't known the stability of a typical domestic environment.

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

The Programme is detailed in its approach, initiating with detailed evaluations of existing policies, creating oversight mechanisms, and garnering executive backing. It recognizes that successful integration requires more than lofty goals—it demands practical measures.

In NHS Birmingham and Solihull ICB, where James started his career, they've established a consistent support system with representatives who can offer help and direction on mental health, HR matters, recruitment, and equality, diversity, and inclusion.

The conventional NHS recruitment process—formal and often daunting—has been carefully modified. Job advertisements now highlight attitudinal traits rather than extensive qualifications. Application procedures have been redesigned to accommodate the specific obstacles care leavers might face—from lacking professional references to struggling with internet access.

Maybe most importantly, the Programme understands that beginning employment can create specific difficulties for care leavers who may be handling self-sufficiency without the backup of parental assistance. Concerns like travel expenses, identification documents, and banking arrangements—considered standard by many—can become substantial hurdles.

The elegance of the Programme lies in its thorough planning—from outlining compensation information to helping with commuting costs until that essential first wage disbursement. Even apparently small matters like rest periods and office etiquette are carefully explained.

For James, whose career trajectory has "transformed" his life, the Programme delivered more than employment. It gave him a sense of belonging—that ineffable quality that emerges when someone feels valued not despite their history but because their distinct perspective enriches 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 team of people who genuinely care."

The NHS Universal Family Programme embodies more than an job scheme. It exists as a bold declaration that institutions can adapt to embrace those who have navigated different paths. In doing so, they not only change personal trajectories but improve their services through the special insights that care leavers bring to the table.

As James moves through the hospital, his participation quietly demonstrates that with the right help, care leavers can succeed in environments once deemed unattainable. The arm that the NHS has provided through this Programme represents not charity but appreciation of untapped potential and the essential fact that everyone deserves a community that supports their growth.