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 barely make a sound as he acknowledges colleagues—some by name, others with the comfortable currency of a "hello there."

James wears his NHS lanyard not merely as a security requirement but as a declaration of inclusion. It hangs against a neatly presented outfit that gives no indication of the tumultuous journey that brought him here.

What sets apart James from many of his colleagues is not obvious to the casual observer. His bearing gives away nothing of the fact that he was among the first beneficiaries of the NHS Universal Family Programme—an effort designed specifically for young people who have spent time in care.

"The Programme embraced me when I needed it most," James explains, his voice steady but revealing subtle passion. His statement summarizes the essence of a programme that seeks to reinvent how the enormous healthcare system views care leavers—those vulnerable young people aged 16-25 who have transitioned from the care system.

The numbers tell a troubling story. Care leavers often face greater psychological challenges, economic uncertainty, shelter insecurities, and diminished educational achievements compared to their contemporaries. Beneath these impersonal figures are personal narratives of young people who have traversed a system that, despite good efforts, often falls short in delivering 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 significant change in systemic approach. At its core, it recognizes that the complete state and civil society should function as a "communal support system" for those who haven't known the security of a typical domestic environment.

Ten pathfinder integrated care boards across England have blazed the trail, creating structures that rethink how the NHS—one of Europe's largest employers—can extend opportunities to care leavers.

The Programme is thorough in its methodology, starting from detailed evaluations of existing policies, establishing oversight mechanisms, and garnering executive backing. It understands that effective inclusion requires more than good intentions—it demands practical measures.

In NHS Birmingham and Solihull ICB, where James found his footing, they've developed a regular internal communication network with representatives who can provide help and direction on mental health, HR matters, recruitment, and equality, diversity, and inclusion.

The conventional NHS recruitment process—rigid and often daunting—has been carefully modified. Job advertisements now highlight character attributes rather than extensive qualifications. Application processes have been reimagined to address the specific obstacles care leavers might face—from not having work-related contacts to struggling with internet access.

Possibly most crucially, the Programme recognizes that starting a job can pose particular problems for care leavers who may be managing independent living without the backup of family resources. Matters like travel expenses, proper ID, and financial services—considered standard by many—can become major obstacles.

The beauty of the Programme lies in its meticulous consideration—from outlining compensation information to helping with commuting costs until that critical first salary payment. Even ostensibly trivial elements like coffee breaks and office etiquette are deliberately addressed.

For James, whose NHS journey has "transformed" his life, the Programme delivered more than employment. It offered him a feeling of connection—that ineffable quality that develops when someone is appreciated not despite their background but because their particular journey enriches the workplace.

"Working for the NHS isn't just about doctors and nurses," James comments, his gaze showing the subtle satisfaction of someone who has found his place. "It's about a collective of different jobs and roles, a group of people who genuinely care."

The NHS Universal Family Programme exemplifies more than an employment initiative. It exists as a powerful statement that organizations can change to include those who have experienced life differently. In doing so, they not only transform individual lives but enrich themselves through the unique perspectives that care leavers bring to the table.

As James navigates his workplace, his participation quietly demonstrates that with the right support, care leavers can flourish in environments once deemed unattainable. The support that the NHS has offered through this Programme signifies not charity but recognition of overlooked talent and the profound truth that all people merit a family that champions their success.