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 navigates his daily responsibilities with subtle confidence. His oxford shoes move with deliberate precision as he exchanges pleasantries with colleagues—some by name, others with the universal currency of a “good morning.”

James displays his credentials not merely as an employee badge but as a testament of acceptance. It hangs against a pressed shirt that gives no indication of the challenging road that preceded his arrival.

What separates James from many of his colleagues is not immediately apparent. His presence reveals nothing of the fact that he was among the first beneficiaries of the NHS Universal Family Programme—an initiative crafted intentionally for young people who have been through the care system.

“The Programme embraced me when I needed it most,” James reflects, his voice steady but tinged with emotion. His remark summarizes the essence of a programme that seeks to transform how the vast healthcare system approaches 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 frequently encounter greater psychological challenges, money troubles, accommodation difficulties, and reduced scholarly attainment compared to their contemporaries. Underlying these impersonal figures are individual journeys of young people who have maneuvered through a system that, despite best intentions, often falls short in providing the nurturing environment that forms most young lives.

The NHS Universal Family Programme, launched in January 2023 following NHS England’s commitment to the Care Leaver Covenant, signifies a profound shift in systemic approach. At its core, it recognizes that the whole state and civil society should function as a “collective parent” for those who have missed out on the security of a typical domestic environment.

Ten pathfinder integrated care boards across England have blazed the trail, creating frameworks that reimagine how the NHS—one of Europe’s largest employers—can open its doors to care leavers.

The Programme is thorough in its methodology, starting from detailed evaluations of existing procedures, creating governance structures, and garnering executive backing. It acknowledges that effective inclusion requires more than good intentions—it demands tangible actions.

In NHS Birmingham and Solihull ICB, where James found his footing, they’ve developed a regular internal communication network with representatives who can deliver help and direction on personal welfare, HR matters, recruitment, and EDI initiatives.

The conventional NHS recruitment process—structured and possibly overwhelming—has been thoughtfully adapted. Job advertisements now emphasize personal qualities rather than long lists of credentials. Application processes have been reconsidered to address the specific obstacles care leavers might encounter—from missing employment history to struggling with internet access.

Maybe most importantly, the Programme understands that beginning employment can create specific difficulties for care leavers who may be navigating autonomy without the backup of parental assistance. Concerns like travel expenses, proper ID, and banking arrangements—taken for granted by many—can become significant barriers.

The beauty of the Programme lies in its attention to detail—from clarifying salary details to offering travel loans until that essential first salary payment. Even ostensibly trivial elements like coffee breaks and office etiquette are carefully explained.

For James, whose NHS journey has “changed” his life, the Programme delivered more than work. It gave him a feeling of connection—that ineffable quality that grows when someone is appreciated not despite their history but because their distinct perspective enriches the workplace.

“Working for the NHS isn’t just about doctors and nurses,” James observes, his expression revealing the subtle satisfaction of someone who has secured his position. “It’s about a community of different jobs and roles, a family of people who truly matter.”

The NHS Universal Family Programme exemplifies more than an work program. It stands as a bold declaration that institutions can change to welcome those who have navigated different paths. In doing so, they not only alter individual futures but improve their services through the unique perspectives that care leavers contribute.

As James walks the corridors, his presence silently testifies that with the right support, care leavers can thrive in environments once deemed unattainable. The support that the NHS has provided through this Programme represents not charity but acknowledgment of untapped potential and the fundamental reality that everyone deserves a support system that champions their success.