3 Pillars was founded in 2015 by ex-Army Mike Crofts. After volunteering with young offenders in Feltham Young Offenders Institution, he realised how teamwork and positive role models could have a positive impact on young people in the criminal justice system.
10 years later 3 Pillars work with Vauxhall’s Black Prince Trust in Lambeth and in prisons across the UK, having already empowered hundreds of London’s most vulnerable young men to find hope, and equipped them to overcome life’s challenges.
Finding hope
Through sport, especially a rugby-based personal development course, 3 Pillars emphasises ethical values, physical discipline, teamwork, endurance, and positive role models, making sure young people have the tools and the motivation to change.
After the first sports coaching sessions, the prisoners went as far as to make a thank you card. This convinced Mike and his team that they were on the right path.
Lawful lives
They also know 3 Pillars are there to support them to lead successful and lawful lives after they are released from prison, with a mix of mentoring, education and employment support, and rugby training —improving not only themselves but positively impacting their communities.
Living Wage
“At 3Pillars”, says COO Jen Mustoe-Castle, “‘Community’ is a core element of our purpose, alongside ‘Hope’ and ‘Opportunity’. We believe that supporting our community starts with action, which is why we view fair wages not just as a responsibility, but as a meaningful way to contribute to the strength and sustainability of the local economy,”
“Our advice to Lambeth businesses considering Living Wage accreditation is simple: go for it. Becoming an accredited Living Wage Employer isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s good for business. It shows your team and your community that you value fair pay and dignity at work. In a borough like Lambeth, where community and resilience are so strong, paying the real Living Wage is one of the most impactful ways to support local people and build a loyal, motivated team. We’ve found it strengthens trust, attracts talent, and reinforces our purpose.”
More information
- Find out more about 3 Pillars
- For more on Living Wage support from Lambeth Council, email livingwage@lambeth.gov.uk.UK
- Lambeth hosts the Living Wage conference on 22 May 2025.
