Blogs
on September 19, 2025
<br>Within the bustling halls of an NHS hospital in Birmingham, a young man named James Stokes navigates his daily responsibilities with subtle confidence. His polished footwear barely make a sound as he exchanges pleasantries with colleagues—some by name, others with the familiar currency of a "hello there."<br>
<br>James displays his credentials not merely as institutional identification but as a symbol of acceptance. It hangs against a pressed shirt that betrays nothing of the tumultuous journey that led him to this place.<br><img src="https://www.england.nhs.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/universal-family-programme-peer-support-2048x2006.png"; style="max-width:430px;float:right;padding:10px 0px 10px 10px;border:0px;" alt="" />
<br>What separates 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 crafted intentionally for young people who have experienced life in local authority care.<br>
<br>"The Programme embraced me when I needed it most," James explains, his voice controlled but carrying undertones of feeling. His statement captures the essence of a programme that aims to transform how the enormous healthcare system views care leavers—those vulnerable young people aged 16-25 who have emerged from the care system.<br>
<br>The statistics paint a stark picture. Care leavers often face higher rates of mental health issues, money troubles, accommodation difficulties, and diminished educational achievements compared to their age-mates. Underlying these clinical numbers are human stories of young people who have traversed a system that, despite genuine attempts, often falls short in delivering the stable base that forms most young lives.<br>
<br>The <a href="https://www.england.nhs.uk/long-read/nhs-universal-family-programme-quick-guide/">NHS Universal Family Programme</a>, established in January 2023 following NHS England's pledge to the Care Leaver Covenant, signifies a significant change in systemic approach. 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 traditional family setting.<br>
<br>A select group of healthcare regions across England have charted the course, developing structures that reimagine how the NHS—one of Europe's largest employers—can create pathways to care leavers.<br>
<br>The Programme is detailed in its approach, initiating with detailed evaluations of existing policies, creating oversight mechanisms, and securing executive backing. It recognizes that meaningful participation requires more than noble aims—it demands concrete steps.<br>
<br>In NHS Birmingham and Solihull ICB, where James started his career, they've created a consistent support system with representatives who can provide assistance and counsel on personal welfare, HR matters, recruitment, and equality, diversity, and inclusion.<br>
<br>The traditional NHS recruitment process—structured and often daunting—has been thoughtfully adapted. Job advertisements now highlight character attributes rather than numerous requirements. Application procedures have been redesigned to accommodate the particular difficulties care leavers might experience—from not having work-related contacts to having limited internet access.<br>
<br>Maybe most importantly, 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. Concerns like transportation costs, identification documents, and banking arrangements—assumed basic by many—can become significant barriers.<br>
<br>The elegance of the Programme lies in its thorough planning—from explaining payslip deductions to offering travel loans until that crucial first wage disbursement. Even seemingly minor aspects like coffee breaks and workplace conduct are carefully explained.<br>
<br>For James, whose career trajectory has "changed" his life, the Programme offered more than employment. It provided him a feeling of connection—that ineffable quality that grows when someone feels valued not despite their past but because their distinct perspective enriches the organization.<br>
<br>"Working for the NHS isn't just about doctors and nurses," James observes, his eyes reflecting the quiet pride of someone who has found his place. "It's about a collective of different jobs and roles, a team of people who truly matter."<br>
<br>The <a href="https://hnycareershub.co.uk/employer-resources/">NHS Universal Family Programme</a> exemplifies more than an job scheme. It stands as a strong assertion that institutions can evolve to welcome those who have known different challenges. In doing so, they not only transform individual lives but enhance their operations through the unique perspectives that care leavers contribute.<br>
<br>As James navigates his workplace, his participation quietly demonstrates that with the right support, care leavers can succeed in environments once thought inaccessible. The arm that the NHS has provided through this Programme symbolizes not charity but recognition of overlooked talent and the profound truth that everyone deserves a family that supports their growth.<br><img src="https://www.england.nhs.uk/wp-content/themes/nhsengland/static/img/nhs-uk-logo.svg"; style="max-width:420px;float:left;padding:10px 10px 10px 0px;border:0px;" alt="" />