NHS: A Universal Embrace

Among the organized chaos of medical professionals in Birmingham, a young man named James Stokes moves with quiet purpose. His polished footwear barely make a sound as he exchanges pleasantries with colleagues—some by name, others with the comfortable currency of a “how are you.”

James carries his identification not merely as institutional identification but as a symbol of inclusion. It sits against a neatly presented outfit that betrays nothing of the challenging road that led him to this place.

What separates James from many of his colleagues is not visible on the surface. His bearing discloses nothing of the fact that he was among the first participants of the NHS Universal Family Programme—an undertaking crafted intentionally for young people who have experienced life in local authority care.

“I found genuine support within the NHS structure,” James says, his voice steady but tinged with emotion. His remark captures the heart of a programme that aims to revolutionize how the vast healthcare system approaches care leavers—those often overlooked young people aged 16-25 who have graduated out of the care system.

The figures paint a stark picture. Care leavers commonly experience higher rates of mental health issues, economic uncertainty, accommodation difficulties, and lower academic success compared to their peers. Behind these cold statistics are human stories of young people who have traversed a system that, despite genuine attempts, regularly misses the mark in offering the supportive foundation that forms most young lives.

The NHS Universal Family Programme, launched in January 2023 following NHS England’s commitment to the Care Leaver Covenant, embodies a substantial transformation in organizational perspective. At its core, it acknowledges that the whole state and civil society should function as a “collective parent” for those who have missed out on the constancy of a typical domestic environment.

A select group of healthcare regions across England have blazed the trail, creating frameworks that reimagine how the NHS—one of Europe’s largest employers—can extend opportunities to care leavers.

The Programme is detailed in its strategy, starting from comprehensive audits of existing practices, establishing oversight mechanisms, and securing executive backing. It acknowledges that meaningful participation requires more than lofty goals—it demands tangible actions.

In NHS Birmingham and Solihull ICB, where James began his journey, they’ve developed a consistent support system with representatives who can deliver assistance and counsel on personal welfare, HR matters, recruitment, and EDI initiatives.

The standard NHS recruitment process—rigid and potentially intimidating—has been intentionally adjusted. Job advertisements now highlight attitudinal traits rather than extensive qualifications. Application processes have been reimagined to address the particular difficulties care leavers might face—from not having work-related contacts to facing barriers to internet access.

Perhaps most significantly, the Programme understands that beginning employment can present unique challenges for care leavers who may be managing independent living without the support of parental assistance. Matters like transportation costs, proper ID, and bank accounts—considered standard by many—can become substantial hurdles.

The beauty of the Programme lies in its attention to detail—from explaining payslip deductions to offering travel loans until that crucial first wage disbursement. Even ostensibly trivial elements like coffee breaks and workplace conduct are thoughtfully covered.

For James, whose career trajectory has “revolutionized” his life, the Programme provided more than work. It offered him a perception of inclusion—that elusive quality that emerges when someone is appreciated not despite their history but because their distinct perspective 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 discovered belonging. “It’s about a collective of different jobs and roles, a group of people who genuinely care.”

The NHS Universal Family Programme embodies more than an job scheme. It stands as a powerful statement that institutions can evolve to embrace those who have known different challenges. In doing so, they not only change personal trajectories but improve their services through the unique perspectives that care leavers bring to the table.

As James navigates his workplace, his presence subtly proves that with the right support, care leavers can flourish in environments once deemed unattainable. The embrace that the NHS has provided through this Programme signifies not charity but appreciation of overlooked talent and the profound truth that everyone deserves a support system that champions their success.