NHS: The Family They Never Had

Among the organized chaos of medical professionals in Birmingham, 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 greets colleagues—some by name, others with the comfortable currency of a “how are you.”

James displays his credentials not merely as institutional identification but as a symbol of inclusion. It sits against a pressed shirt that offers no clue of the challenging road that led him to this place.

What sets apart James from many of his colleagues is not visible on the surface. His presence gives away 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 revealing subtle passion. His observation captures the core of a programme that strives to transform how the massive healthcare system perceives care leavers—those frequently marginalized young people aged 16-25 who have emerged from the care system.

The statistics reveal a challenging reality. Care leavers commonly experience higher rates of mental health issues, economic uncertainty, accommodation difficulties, and diminished educational achievements compared to their age-mates. Beneath these cold statistics are human stories of young people who have maneuvered through a system that, despite genuine attempts, often falls short in delivering the nurturing environment that molds most young lives.

The NHS Universal Family Programme, launched in January 2023 following NHS England’s promise to the Care Leaver Covenant, represents a substantial transformation in organizational perspective. At its core, it accepts that the whole state and civil society should function as a “collective parent” for those who haven’t experienced the stability of a conventional home.

Ten pathfinder integrated care boards across England have led the way, establishing systems that rethink how the NHS—one of Europe’s largest employers—can open its doors to care leavers.

The Programme is detailed in its strategy, beginning with comprehensive audits of existing policies, establishing management frameworks, and obtaining leadership support. It understands that meaningful participation requires more than lofty goals—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 deliver assistance and counsel on wellbeing, HR matters, recruitment, and equality, diversity, and inclusion.

The traditional NHS recruitment process—formal and possibly overwhelming—has been thoughtfully adapted. Job advertisements now emphasize personal qualities rather than numerous requirements. Application processes have been reimagined to address the particular difficulties care leavers might experience—from lacking professional references to having limited internet access.

Possibly most crucially, the Programme understands that starting a job can pose particular problems for care leavers who may be managing independent living without the support of familial aid. Matters like commuting fees, personal documentation, and financial services—taken for granted by many—can become significant barriers.

The elegance of the Programme lies in its attention to detail—from clarifying salary details to providing transportation assistance until that crucial first wage disbursement. Even apparently small matters like rest periods and professional behavior are thoughtfully covered.

For James, whose career trajectory has “changed” his life, the Programme provided more than work. It provided him a perception of inclusion—that elusive quality that grows when someone feels valued not despite their past but because their distinct perspective enhances the institution.

“Working for the NHS isn’t just about doctors and nurses,” James observes, his expression revealing the modest fulfillment of someone who has found his place. “It’s about a community of different jobs and roles, a group of people who really connect.”

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

As James navigates his workplace, his participation silently testifies that with the right help, care leavers can flourish in environments once considered beyond reach. 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 family that champions their success.