NHS: Belonging in White Corridors

Within the bustling halls of an NHS hospital in Birmingham, a young man named James Stokes carries himself with the measured poise of someone who has found his place. His oxford shoes whisper against the floor as he exchanges pleasantries with colleagues—some by name, others with the comfortable currency of a “good morning.”

James carries his identification not merely as an employee badge but as a symbol of belonging. It hangs against a neatly presented outfit that gives no indication of the tumultuous journey that led him to this place.

What separates James from many of his colleagues is not immediately apparent. His bearing reveals nothing of the fact that he was among the first participants of the NHS Universal Family Programme—an undertaking designed specifically for young people who have been through the care system.

“I found genuine support within the NHS structure,” James reflects, his voice controlled but revealing subtle passion. His statement summarizes the heart of a programme that strives to revolutionize how the vast healthcare system views 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 poorer mental health outcomes, money troubles, housing precarity, and lower academic success compared to their peers. Behind these clinical numbers are individual journeys of young people who have traversed a system that, despite genuine attempts, regularly misses the mark in delivering the nurturing environment that shapes most young lives.

The NHS Universal Family Programme, established in January 2023 following NHS England’s promise to the Care Leaver Covenant, represents a significant change in institutional thinking. At its core, it recognizes that the complete state and civil society should function as a “universal family” for those who haven’t experienced the stability of a conventional home.

A select group of healthcare regions across England have led the way, developing frameworks that reconceptualize how the NHS—one of Europe’s largest employers—can open its doors to care leavers.

The Programme is detailed in its approach, beginning with detailed evaluations of existing practices, creating governance structures, and garnering senior buy-in. It recognizes that meaningful participation requires more than lofty goals—it demands tangible actions.

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

The traditional NHS recruitment process—formal and potentially intimidating—has been carefully modified. Job advertisements now highlight personal qualities rather than numerous requirements. Application procedures have been redesigned to accommodate the specific obstacles care leavers might encounter—from not having work-related contacts to having limited internet access.

Possibly most crucially, the Programme understands that starting a job can present unique challenges for care leavers who may be managing independent living without the backup of family resources. Concerns like transportation costs, proper ID, and financial services—taken for granted by many—can become substantial hurdles.

The beauty of the Programme lies in its attention to detail—from outlining compensation information to offering travel loans until that essential first payday. Even seemingly minor aspects like coffee breaks and office etiquette are carefully explained.

For James, whose professional path has “transformed” his life, the Programme delivered more than work. It gave him a feeling of connection—that intangible quality that develops when someone is appreciated not despite their background but because their unique life experiences improves the organization.

“Working for the NHS isn’t just about doctors and nurses,” James observes, his gaze showing the quiet pride of someone who has secured his position. “It’s about a community of different jobs and roles, a group of people who truly matter.”

The NHS Universal Family Programme exemplifies more than an work program. It functions as a powerful statement that systems can adapt to include those who have known different challenges. 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 involvement quietly demonstrates that with the right help, care leavers can flourish in environments once deemed unattainable. The support that the NHS has provided through this Programme symbolizes not charity but acknowledgment of overlooked talent and the essential fact that everyone deserves a community that champions their success.