NHS: The Family They Never Had

In the sterile corridors of Birmingham Women’s and Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, a young man named James Stokes moves with quiet purpose. His oxford shoes move with deliberate precision as he greets colleagues—some by name, others with the comfortable currency of a “good morning.”

James displays his credentials not merely as a security requirement but as a symbol of belonging. It sits against a well-maintained uniform that gives no indication of the challenging road that led him to this place.

What distinguishes James from many of his colleagues is not visible on the surface. His demeanor discloses nothing of the fact that he was among the first participants of the NHS Universal Family Programme—an undertaking created purposefully 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 remark captures the essence of a programme that strives to reinvent how the vast healthcare system views care leavers—those frequently marginalized young people aged 16-25 who have graduated out of the care system.

The statistics tell a troubling story. Care leavers often face greater psychological challenges, money troubles, shelter insecurities, and reduced scholarly attainment compared to their age-mates. Behind these impersonal figures are individual journeys of young people who have navigated a system that, despite best intentions, often falls short in delivering the supportive foundation that shapes most young lives.

The NHS Universal Family Programme, established in January 2023 following NHS England’s commitment to the Care Leaver Covenant, signifies a profound shift in organizational perspective. At its core, it accepts that the entire state and civil society should function as a “universal family” for those who haven’t known the constancy of a traditional family setting.

Ten pioneering healthcare collectives across England have blazed the trail, creating structures that reimagine how the NHS—one of Europe’s largest employers—can create pathways to care leavers.

The Programme is detailed in its approach, starting from comprehensive audits of existing procedures, forming management frameworks, and securing leadership support. It understands that successful integration requires more than good intentions—it demands concrete steps.

In NHS Birmingham and Solihull ICB, where James found his footing, they’ve developed a regular internal communication network with representatives who can provide support, advice, and guidance on wellbeing, HR matters, recruitment, and EDI initiatives.

The conventional NHS recruitment process—formal and often daunting—has been thoughtfully adapted. Job advertisements now highlight attitudinal traits rather than long lists of credentials. Application processes have been reimagined to consider the particular difficulties care leavers might encounter—from not having work-related contacts to struggling with internet access.

Maybe most importantly, the Programme acknowledges that starting a job can pose particular problems for care leavers who may be navigating autonomy without the safety net of family resources. Matters like commuting fees, proper ID, and financial services—considered standard by many—can become major obstacles.

The beauty of the Programme lies in its attention to detail—from explaining payslip deductions to providing transportation assistance until that critical first wage disbursement. Even ostensibly trivial elements like rest periods and workplace conduct are deliberately addressed.

For James, whose career trajectory has “revolutionized” his life, the Programme provided more than work. It gave him a perception of inclusion—that intangible quality that develops when someone feels valued not despite their background but because their unique life experiences enriches the institution.

“Working for the NHS isn’t just about doctors and nurses,” James notes, his gaze showing the modest fulfillment of someone who has found his place. “It’s about a family of different jobs and roles, a team of people who really connect.”

The NHS Universal Family Programme represents more than an employment initiative. It functions as a powerful statement that systems can evolve to embrace those who have known different challenges. In doing so, they not only transform individual lives but enhance their operations through the distinct viewpoints that care leavers contribute.

As James walks the corridors, his involvement subtly proves that with the right assistance, care leavers can succeed in environments once thought inaccessible. The embrace that the NHS has offered through this Programme represents not charity but appreciation of hidden abilities and the fundamental reality that everyone deserves a support system that supports their growth.